President Xi Jinping showed US President Donald Trump the exclusive Zhongnanhai compound. This heavily guarded area is where China's top leaders live and work. The tour took place at the end of Trump's two-day visit to Beijing. The event was a very public display for cameras.
The summit between the two major global powers followed periods of tension. These included disagreements over trade and the Iran war. Both leaders adopted a conciliatory tone during the visit. Trump described his experience as "incredible." President Xi called it a "new bilateral relationship." He promised to send Trump Chinese rose seeds gifted during their walk.
Zhongnanhai is considered China's equivalent of the White House. It was once a residence for Chinese emperors. The compound is known for its beautiful lakes and gardens. It became the center of Communist government power in 1949. An invitation to Zhongnanhai is a rare honor for foreign leaders. It signals high levels of trust and closeness.
President Xi told Trump that visits by foreign leaders are "extremely rare." Russian President Vladimir Putin has also visited Zhongnanhai. The Belarusian president, Alexander Lukashenko, toured the compound last year. Former US presidents like Barack Obama and George W. Bush have also visited. President Nixon made a historic trip in 1972.
During his tour, Trump admired the roses and ancient trees. Xi mentioned some trees were 200 to 400 years old. Trump seemed surprised by their longevity. Xi noted that 1,000-year-old trees exist elsewhere in China. This exchange added a personal touch to the high-level diplomacy.
Hours earlier, Trump had praised Xi. He called the Chinese leader "warm" and "very smart." Trump told Fox News that Xi pledged not to supply Iran with military weapons. However, Trump acknowledged Iran's oil purchases from China. Xi reportedly wants the Strait of Hormuz to remain open.
China's foreign ministry stated Beijing is working to end the conflict in Iran. They are reportedly helping to encourage negotiations. China is Iran's largest oil buyer and main trade partner. The US had hoped China would use its influence. This could push Tehran towards a peace settlement.
Trump stated that trade talks had gone better than before. Business leaders accompanying him aimed to "make deals." They hoped to "bring back jobs" to the US. Trump also claimed China would buy US oil and Boeing jets. He mentioned agricultural products as well. China's foreign ministry later did not confirm agricultural or Boeing deals.
China emphasized "a series of new consensuses." Details of these agreements remain unclear. Analysts observe China's growing global influence. This is partly due to expanded trade outside the US. This strategy helps China mitigate US tariffs.
Other world leaders from Britain, Canada, and Germany have visited Beijing recently. They seek to boost business ties. Trump invited Xi to the White House later this year. Trump expressed his strong impression of China after the visit. This demonstrates continued engagement between the two economic powers.