Chinese President Xi Jinping called for cooperation with Washington, according to Chinese state media, hours after US President Donald Trump warmly welcomed him to Washington on Wednesday evening.
In written remarks published by the official Xinhua News Agency, Xi said China and the United States “should be partners, not rivals,” adding that “the Chinese and American peoples have long enjoyed friendly exchanges, and our interests are deeply intertwined.”
The remarks came ahead of anticipated talks between Trump and Xi, who shook hands on the red carpet following the Chinese leader’s arrival in the US capital.
Their discussions are expected to cover trade and technological competition, particularly in artificial intelligence, as well as Beijing’s diplomatic and economic support for Tehran.
“I look forward to having in-depth discussions with President Trump on key issues concerning our bilateral relations and the global situation,” Xi said, according to Xinhua.
He added that countries should “work toward each other” to promote a stable relationship based on cooperation, with competition kept within limits and differences managed.
Referring to Trump’s political slogan, Xi said that “the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation and the goal of making the United States great again can go hand in hand.”
Xinhua quoted Xi as saying that both sides should “chart the right course for two major powers” to coexist in harmony, adding, “I am confident that we can achieve this.”
“I believe that through the joint efforts of both sides, this visit will produce fruitful results, enhance the well-being of our two peoples and bring new hope for world peace,” Xi added.
Source: (AFP)
