WASHINGTON, 24 September, 2026 (Ghufran): US President Donald Trump welcomed Chinese President Xi Jinping to the White House on Thursday, describing their relationship as a “great friendship” built on mutual respect and the interests of both countries. Trump said the two leaders would discuss pressing issues including artificial intelligence, security, technology and super intelligence, stressing that decisions in these areas could have long-term implications for global peace and prosperity. Xi, in his remarks, said China and the United States had both the capability and responsibility to develop and manage artificial intelligence for the benefit of humanity and ensure that its development remains under human control. Trump personally greeted Xi at Joint Base Andrews, marking the first time in more than six decades that a US president had welcomed a foreign political leader there. The visit includes talks in the Oval Office, a military ceremony, a state banquet and other formal engagements. The two leaders are also expected to discuss the situation involving Iran and tensions surrounding Taiwan. Trade relations remain another key issue, with US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announcing an extension of the existing trade truce between Washington and Beijing. Despite the emphasis on close ties, major breakthroughs are not expected from the meeting, which is being viewed as an effort to maintain broader stability in US-China relations.