Xi, Trump agree on 'strategic stability' framework to reset China-US ties

BEIJING: Chinese President Xi Jinping and US President Donald Trump on Thursday agreed on a new framework aimed at building a “constructive China-US relationship of strategic stability”, marking what both sides described as a significant step toward stabilising ties between the world’s two largest economies.

The agreement emerged during more than two hours of talks at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, where Xi said he hoped to work with Trump to “steer the giant ship of China-US relations” and make 2026 a historic year for bilateral engagement.

Describing the proposed framework, Xi said the new relationship should promote “positive stability” through cooperation, “sound stability” through moderate competition, “constant stability” by managing differences, and “enduring stability” focused on peace.

He stressed that the concept should move beyond rhetoric and translate into concrete actions by both governments.

The meeting underscored the growing importance of head-of-state diplomacy in maintaining stable ties amid global uncertainty and geopolitical tensions. Since their meeting in Busan last year, Beijing and Washington have maintained regular communication through phone calls and diplomatic engagement, helping preserve a relatively stable trajectory in relations.

Economic cooperation featured prominently in the discussions, with both leaders acknowledging the importance of trade and investment ties despite ongoing disagreements over tariffs, technology restrictions and supply chains.

Xi reiterated that China-US economic relations were “mutually beneficial and win-win in nature”, while urging both sides to resolve disputes through equal-footed consultations.

Trump echoed the sentiment, saying cooperation between the two countries could produce “big and good things” for both nations and the wider world.

The US president was accompanied by several high-profile business leaders, including Elon Musk, Tim Cook, Cristiano Amon and Jensen Huang, reflecting continued American corporate interest in the Chinese market.

The summit also highlighted the deep economic integration between the two countries, with both sides pointing to expanding trade, manufacturing and technology partnerships despite broader strategic rivalry.

Chinese officials noted that companies such as Tesla had further integrated Chinese suppliers into their global production chains, while surveys by the American Chamber of Commerce in China showed sustained confidence among US firms operating in China.

The leaders also voiced mutual support for upcoming global economic events, with China set to host the APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting and the United States preparing for the G20 Summit.

Xi said a stable China-US relationship would not only benefit both nations but also contribute to global peace, development and economic stability.

Xi Jinping, Donald Trump visit Temple of Heaven in Beijing

Chinese President Xi Jinping and US President Donald Trump visited the Temple of Heaven in Beijing on Thursday.

President Xi greeted President Trump outside the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests. The leaders had a photo taken in front of the hall, before taking a tour.

Chinese President Xi Jinping and US President Donald Trump visit the Temple of Heaven, Beijing, China, May 14, 2026. /CMG

During their visit, Xi explained to Trump that in ancient times, state rituals were held at the Temple of Heaven, where then Chinese rulers prayed for national prosperity, social harmony and favorable weather for good harvests.

"It reflects the traditional Chinese concept that the people are the foundation of a state and only when the foundation is solid will the state be stable," Xi said.

The Communist Party of China has inherited and carried forward this people-centered philosophy rooted in the Chinese civilization, Xi said.

By upholding its fundamental commitment to serving the people wholeheartedly, the Party has earned the firm support of the Chinese people, he added.

Trump said he was impressed by the more than 600-year-old Temple of Heaven. He said the United States and China are both great countries, and that both peoples are wise and great.

He added that the two countries should deepen mutual understanding and strengthen friendship between their peoples.