Is Trump’s China trip still on? Despite Iran, Wang Yi sees potential
Despite U.S. strikes on China's partner Iran, Beijing suggests high-level diplomacy will proceed.
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has signaled that a high-stakes summit between U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping is still planned, despite significant geopolitical friction. Speaking at a press conference during China's annual "Two Sessions" political gathering, Wang addressed concerns that recent U.S. and Israeli military strikes against Iran—a crucial strategic and oil partner for Beijing—could derail Trump's tentative visit starting March 31. While not directly confirming the trip, Wang stated the agenda for high-level exchanges is "already on the table" and framed 2026 as a potential "big year" for U.S.-China relations.
Wang's comments represent a deliberate diplomatic effort to insulate bilateral engagement from the crisis in the Middle East. He urged both sides to "make thorough preparations, foster a conducive atmosphere, manage existing differences, and remove unnecessary distractions." The visit, which would be the first by an American president to China in nine years, is not yet formally confirmed by Beijing, though communication between the two governments is ongoing. Wang emphasized China's "positive and open" attitude, calling for reciprocal sincerity from the U.S. to expand cooperation.
- Wang Yi suggested Trump's visit to meet Xi Jinping, tentatively set for March 31, is still proceeding despite U.S. strikes on Iran.
- The diplomatic push comes amid the annual "Two Sessions" where China sets its political and economic targets for the year.
- Beijing has criticized the strikes on Iran as violations of international law but is prioritizing high-level engagement with Washington.
Why It Matters
Stable U.S.-China relations are critical for global markets and tech supply chains; a summit could ease trade and AI tensions.