Chinese President Xi Jinping proposed a variety of engagements ahead of his state visit to the United States last month, but many of these proposals were rejected by the U.S. government.
According to multiple sources cited by the Hong Kong South China Morning Post, China suggested meetings between Xi and American business leaders, as well as discussions with U.S. college students during his visit from September 23 to 25. The Chinese side proposed that Xi visit prestigious universities in Washington or New York to engage with students and deliver speeches to American entrepreneurs. Additionally, they suggested a meeting between top executives from major technology companies in both countries to discuss cooperation in artificial intelligence (AI).
However, the Trump administration declined most of these proposals. U.S. officials reportedly indicated that Xi's itinerary should reflect the principle of reciprocity established during President Trump's state visit to China in May. There were also concerns about providing a platform for Xi to disseminate his views within the U.S.
Diplomatic and security issues were also not addressed in line with China's requests. While China proposed discussing over ten diplomatic and security matters during the summit, the White House limited discussions to issues such as Iran and preparations for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) and G20 summits.
In particular, China's plan to gather executives from major U.S. and Chinese technology firms to discuss AI collaboration was scrapped due to national security concerns. Nevertheless, both countries agreed to exchange views on the risks and benefits of AI and to establish communication channels in the event of AI-related incidents.
Prior to Xi's visit, China reportedly inquired with various embassies in Washington about the itineraries of other leaders visiting the U.S. to gather the best elements from those programs to enhance Xi's visit. Ultimately, Xi's schedule mirrored that of Trump's visit to China in May, including a state dinner at the White House and a visit to the National Archives.
Xi's last state visit to the U.S. occurred from September 22 to 25, 2015. During that visit, he toured Microsoft headquarters and a Boeing factory in Seattle, participated in a CEO roundtable with U.S. and Chinese business leaders, and met with students and teachers at Lincoln High School in Tacoma. In Washington, he held a summit and state dinner with then-President Barack Obama before attending the United Nations General Assembly in New York.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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