When the Chinese president landed in Washington around midnight on Thursday night, he was received by Trump personally - an unusual welcoming gesture from a US president. According to the BBC, it was the first time this had happened since 1962.
The warmth and friendship the two leaders want to display continued to permeate their opening speeches to each other.
Trump welcomed Xi and his wife Peng Liyuan, emphasizing his “strong friendship” with his guest and the mutual respect they have for each other.
Pressed on about Taiwan
Xi responded in kind and also praised the leaders' good cooperation.
China and the United States may not solve all the world's problems, but without our cooperation, many of the world's problems would be difficult to solve.
During his speech, Xi also presented China's gift to the United States - two pandas that will soon arrive at a zoo in Atlanta. "Ambassadors of friendship," he called the pandas, named Ping Ping and Fu Shuang, who will stay in Atlanta for ten years.
But when the welcoming ceremony was over, there were fewer polite phrases, AFP reports. In the leaders' meeting in the Oval Office, Xi urged Trump to exercise caution when it comes to Taiwan and not support Taiwan and the island's autonomy.
Xi is also said to have urged Trump to end the war against Iran through negotiations as quickly as possible.
“Fantastic meeting”
During Xi's visit, they will also discuss AI and security issues, among other things.
"The decisions we make on these issues today can create peace and prosperity for decades to come. President Xi and I will continue to work together to create a better future for both our countries," Trump said during the welcoming ceremony.
After the initial meeting, Trump showed off the White House's new helipad and let Xi test-drive a new helicopter. But neither would talk about the talks with the assembled press corps, who wanted to comment.
"We had a great meeting," Trump said briefly.
A banquet awaits in the evening, where sea bass will be served, among other things. The state visit will then continue on Friday.
