Trump Invites Chinese President Xi Jinping to Attend Inauguration
Details of the Invitation
U.S. President-elect Donald Trump has invited Chinese President Xi Jinping to attend his inauguration next month, CBS News reported on Wednesday, citing multiple sources. The invitation to the Jan. 20 inauguration in Washington occurred in early November, shortly after the Nov. 5 presidential election, and it was not clear if it had been accepted, CBS reported. The Chinese embassy in Washington did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Trump’s Relationship with Xi Jinping
Trump said in an interview with NBC News conducted on Friday that he “got along with very well” with Xi and that they had “had communication as recently as this week.” This suggests that the two leaders have a positive relationship, which could be beneficial for future diplomatic efforts.
China Hawks in Trump’s Administration
Trump has named numerous China hawks to key posts in his incoming administration, including Senator Marco Rubio as secretary of state. This has raised concerns among some that Trump’s administration may take a more confrontational approach to China.
Tariffs and Trade
Trump has said he will impose an additional 10% tariff on Chinese goods unless Beijing does more to stop the trafficking of the highly addictive narcotic fentanyl. He also threatened tariffs in excess of 60% on Chinese goods while on the campaign trail. In late November, China’s state media warned Trump that his pledge to slap additional tariffs on Chinese goods over fentanyl flows could drag the world’s top two economies into a mutually destructive tariff war.
Conclusion
The invitation to Xi Jinping to attend Trump’s inauguration is a significant development in the relationship between the two leaders. While it is unclear if Xi will accept the invitation, the fact that Trump has extended it suggests that he is willing to engage with China and build a positive relationship. However, the presence of China hawks in Trump’s administration and his threats to impose tariffs on Chinese goods could create tension in the relationship.
FAQs
Q: Has Xi Jinping accepted the invitation to attend Trump’s inauguration?
A: It is unclear if Xi Jinping has accepted the invitation.
Q: What is the significance of the invitation?
A: The invitation suggests that Trump is willing to engage with China and build a positive relationship.
Q: What are the concerns about Trump’s administration and China?
A: Some are concerned that Trump’s administration may take a more confrontational approach to China, particularly given the presence of China hawks in key posts.
Q: What are the implications of Trump’s tariffs on Chinese goods?
A: The tariffs could create tension in the relationship between the two countries and potentially lead to a trade war.