Trump Gives Xi Thumbs-Up After Meeting, Says US, China Struck ‘Fantastic’ Trade Deals

Meets Xi for tea on final day of China visit

Also discusses Iran and the Strait of Hormuz

President Donald Trump said the US had reached “fantastic trade deals” with China, calling the outcome a win for both countries.

Trump made the remarks on May 15 during a tea meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping at Zhongnanhai in Beijing. “This has been an amazing visit,” he said. “We’ve made fantastic trade deals, and it’s great for both countries.”

He described Xi as “a person I respect very much” and “a friend.” The two have known each other for 11 years, almost 12, Trump said, and have resolved many issues others would not have been able to solve. He added that their relationship remained strong.

The two leaders also exchanged views on Iran and the Strait of Hormuz. Trump said the US and China think very similarly about Iran, adding that both sides want the situation to end, do not want Iran to possess nuclear weapons and want the strait to remain open.

Trump also renewed his request for Xi to visit the US in September. “President Xi will be visiting the United States,” he said. “Like reciprocal trade, the visit will also be reciprocal.”

Zhongnanhai, where the meeting took place, is the center of political power in China and houses Xi’s residence and offices. Trump and Xi also walked together in the garden. When Trump pointed to the roses and called them “the most beautiful roses nobody has ever seen,” Xi replied that he would send rose seeds.

Trump gave reporters a thumbs-up when asked about his impressions of the visit, signaling his satisfaction.

Shin Hyun-bo, Hankyung.com reporter, greaterfool@hankyung.com