WASHINGTON: Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived in the United States on a three-day visit, where US President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump welcomed him and his wife, Peng Liyuan, at Joint Base Andrews.
A 100-foot-long red carpet was laid out for Xi’s arrival, while a 21-gun salute and an aerial display by two US Air Force B-1 bombers formed part of the ceremonial reception.
Trump and Melania greeted Xi and Peng on the runway, with the two couples exchanging handshakes and brief remarks.
Three ceremonial units were positioned alongside US and Chinese flags for the welcome ceremony. The US Air Force Band performed the national anthems of both countries, while platoons representing all branches of the US military also participated in the reception.
The B-1 is a supersonic bomber and a major component of the US military’s strategic bomber fleet, capable of carrying out conventional and nuclear missions. The aircraft have also been involved in recent US military operations against Iran.
The full details of the reception had not been disclosed by the White House or the US military before the ceremony. Details that emerged later showed that the program included the red carpet, gun salute, national flags and anthems, and a military parade.
During Xi’s three-day visit, Trump and the Chinese president are expected to discuss tariffs, artificial intelligence, the Iran war, Taiwan and other major bilateral and international issues.
Trade is also expected to remain a key topic, as a trade agreement reached between the United States and China last year is due to expire in November.
Following the ceremony, Trump accompanied Xi to his vehicle, where the two leaders briefly spoke before Xi departed for Washington, D.C. Trump and Melania also left for the White House.
The visit is expected to include cordial engagements, closed-door talks and a state dinner, although the White House and US military have not released the complete final schedule of events.