“Let Us Move Forward Together, Not in Conflict”: Xi–Trump Talks Deliver Message of Global Peace Ahead of Pakistani Prime Minister’s Visit

BEIJING — U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping began high-level talks in Beijing on Thursday, just days before the expected official visit of Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, whose country has recently been linked to mediation efforts surrounding the Iran conflict.

During the formal welcoming ceremony held at the entrance of the Great Hall of the People, President Xi stated that stable and constructive relations between China and the United States could help address the growing complexities facing the current global order. He emphasized that the world’s two major powers should move forward together rather than confront one another.

In response, President Trump remarked that the Chinese military was highly impressive and, gesturing toward Xi, said, “You are a very good leader, a great leader. But when I say that, some people criticize me for it.” The friendly and candid exchange between the two leaders has generated fresh optimism in international politics and renewed expectations for greater global stability.