How the Trump-Xi summit could set superpower relations for many years to come

Key developments are emerging from the global stage. How the Trump-Xi summit could set superpower relations for many years to come53 minutes ago Share Save Add as preferred on GoogleAnthony Zurcher ,North America correspondentandLaura Bicker ,China correspondentBBCSecurity around Beijing's historic Tiananmen Square has been heightened for days, with rumours on social media swirling of a special parade or some big, choreographed event. Preparations for this major event have started with a whisper, but China appears ready to put on a show for US President Donald Trump. The visit will include talks, a banquet, and a visit to the Temple of Heaven, a complex of imperial temples where emperors would pray for a good harvest.

And both Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping will be hoping the visit will bear fruit. This summit between the world's two most powerful leaders is set to be one of the most consequential encounters for years. Getty ImagesThis is the first visit by a US president since Trump's last one in 2017For months, US-China relations have been a lower priority for Trump.

The Details

His focus has been on the ongoing war with Iran, military operations in the Western Hemisphere and domestic concerns. But that all changes this week. The future of global trade, rising tensions in Taiwan, and competition in advanced technologies are all at stake.

Economically, the ongoing trade war with the US and the conflict in Iran may be bad news for Xi, but ideologically and politically they're a gift and he will feel he has a strong hand. This visit could set the groundwork for future cooperation – or conflict – in the years ahead. China is trying to quietly step in as a peacemaker with the war now in its third month.

Beijing has joined Pakistan as a mediator in the US-Israel war against Iran. Officials in Beijing and Islamabad in March presented a five-point plan with the aim of bringing about a ceasefire and re-opening the Strait of Hormuz. And behind the scenes, Chinese officials have been gently nudging their Iranian counterparts towards the negotiation table.

What Experts Say

There's no doubt, despite its steady show of strength, that China is eager for an end to this war. The country's economy is already battling slower growth and higher unemployment. Increasing oil prices have driven up the cost of items made with petrochemicals, everything from textiles to plastics.

For some producers in China, costs have gone up 20%. ReutersA billboard in Tehran shows the Strait of Hormuz as a gag stitched across Trump's mouth China has enviable oil reserves and the lead it has taken in renewables and electric cars has insulated it from the worst effects of the fuel crisis, but the war is causing more pain to a sluggish Chinese economy that is heavily reliant on exports. However, if China is to step in and help the US, it will still want something in return.

The visit of Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi to Beijing last week seemed designed to show the kind of hold and influence China has in the Middle East.

The development has drawn wide international attention, with diplomatic circles watching closely.