WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump revealed that Chinese President Xi Jinping invited him to visit Beijing, and in turn, Trump extended a similar invitation to Xi. This exchange happened during a recent phone conversation focused primarily on the ongoing trade dispute between the world’s two largest economies.
In a social media post dated June 5, Trump stated that their discussion centered solely on trade issues and mutual visits, following a temporary halt in tit-for-tat tariffs and the start of renewed negotiations aimed at a long-term solution.
China’s state-run news agency, Xinhua, confirmed the call but offered no additional information. The news triggered a brief spike in futures markets, though U.S. stocks dropped shortly after the opening bell, reflecting investors’ mixed reactions.
According to the Chinese Embassy in Washington, the phone call was initiated at Trump’s request. The White House remained silent when asked for further comment. This was reportedly the first call between Trump and Xi since Trump assumed the presidency. Their most recent conversation had taken place just days before Trump’s inauguration on January 17.
During his first term, Trump made an official visit to Beijing, where Xi hosted an elaborate, red-carpet welcome. The current call adds to speculation of warming ties, despite rising tensions in recent months.
The White House had earlier indicated that a call between the two leaders was likely this week but declined to share exact timing or specific discussion points. However, it was widely expected that trade tariffs and recently announced U.S. visa restrictions targeting Chinese students would dominate the agenda.
Just days earlier, Trump had accused China of “totally violating” a preliminary agreement that had reduced U.S. tariffs on Chinese goods from 145% to 30%. In response, China had also lowered its tariffs on American exports from 125% to 10%. These concessions were part of a broader strategy to create space for more permanent trade negotiations.
Despite the thaw, tensions flared again this week when China accused the U.S. of breaching a 90-day truce through newly imposed export restrictions on AI microchips and tighter visa controls for students. Washington alleges that these students may have ties to the Chinese Communist Party or be involved in sensitive research areas.
During his hour-and-a-half conversation with Xi, Trump claimed they reached an understanding on critical mineral exports—an increasingly vital area as both countries compete in the tech and defense industries. He noted that their respective trade teams would soon resume talks to hammer out the specifics.
Adding further fuel to the diplomatic fire, Trump issued a directive on June 4 that barred Harvard University from participating in the international student visa program. While the administration didn’t elaborate, the move is part of a broader crackdown on academic links perceived as national security risks.
China’s Foreign Ministry responded strongly. At a press briefing on June 5, spokesperson Lin Jian condemned the U.S. action, warning that it would harm America’s own reputation and international standing. “China opposes politicizing educational cooperation. What the U.S. did will damage its own image and reputation,” Lin declared, vowing to defend the legitimate rights of Chinese scholars abroad.
As both sides prepare for the next round of talks, the path forward remains uncertain. While the phone call could mark the start of renewed diplomacy, deep-rooted issues over technology, trade, and national security continue to pose serious challenges for the U.S.-China relationship.
