Trump and Xi meet as US and China shun slowdown calls in fierce AI and trade competition

US President Donald Trump is hosting Chinese President Xi Jinping in Washington D.C. today for a high-stakes summit, amidst intensifying competition between the two global powers in artificial intelligence and trade. This meeting follows a period of strained relations, with both nations continuing to prioritize their technological and economic advancement despite calls for de-escalation in their fierce rivalry. The agenda for the three-day state visit is expected to focus heavily on these contentious issues.

Both leaders view the race for dominance in artificial intelligence as critical, with reports indicating a shared ambition to lead in this transformative sector rather than implementing broad restraints on their own efforts. While discussions may include establishing a dialogue on AI risks, neither side appears willing to compromise its competitive edge. Trade tensions, which have been simmering since a tariff truce in late 2025, are also a central topic, alongside other geopolitical concerns such as Taiwan and the ongoing situation in Iran.