Topline
President Donald Trump was greeted by several key Chinese officials, a military band and a group of around 300 young people as he arrived in Beijing on Wednesday night, ahead of a crucial summit meeting with Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping.
President Donald Trump is greeted by Chinese youth, a military honor guard and military band as he departs Air Force One at Beijing Capital International Airport.
Getty Images
Key Facts
Trump was greeted near the tarmac by Chinese Vice President Han Zheng, U.S. Ambassador to China David Perdue and a group of other dignitaries.
Trump was followed down the steps by his son Eric Trump, daughter-in-law Lara Trump, Elon Musk and Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
The ceremonial welcome also included a military guard of honor while a group of local youths waved U.S. and Chinese flags in unison.
This is the first U.S. presidential visit to China since 2017 and the most high-profile foreign trip of Trump’s second term so far.
The president is scheduled to take part in multiple meetings with Xi on Thursday and Friday.
Trump’s official delegation includes several key U.S. business leaders including Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang, Apple CEO Tim Cook and Tesla CEO Elon Musk.
Crucial Quote
On Tuesday night, Trump described Xi as a “Leader of extraordinary distinction” in a Truth Social post and said he intends to ask the Chinese President to “open up” his country’s economy so that the top U.S. executives traveling with him can “work their magic, and help bring the People’s Republic to an even higher level!” Trump added that he will “make that my very first request. I have never seen or heard of any idea that would be more beneficial to our incredible.”
President Donald Trump shakes hands with Vice President of China Han Zheng (R) as he walks to his motorcade.
Getty Images
President Donald Trump received a guard of honor upon arrival.
AFP via Getty Images
A group of 300 Chinese youth waved the two countries flags in a choreographed performance.
AFP via Getty Images
People take photographs as Air Force One, carrying US President Donald Trump, arrives at Beijing Capital Airport in Beijing.
AFP via Getty Images
SpaceX and Tesla CEO Elon Musk closely followed Trump as he was greeted on the tarmac by Chinese officials.
AFP via Getty Images