By Our Correspondent

National News – Donald Trump and Xi Jinping concluded a high-profile two-day summit in Beijing on Friday, describing their discussions as “very successful” despite the absence of confirmed trade agreements.

The meeting focused on trade, technology, Taiwan, artificial intelligence, agriculture and global security concerns linked to Iran and the Strait of Hormuz.

Trump arrived in China on Wednesday alongside top American business executives from aviation, AI, agriculture and electric vehicle industries.

During the talks, Trump claimed China agreed to purchase 200 Boeing aircraft, with possible plans for 750 more, although Chinese officials did not confirm the announcement.

He also said China would buy billions of dollars’ worth of American soybeans, raising hopes among US farmers affected by previous tariff disputes.

The summit featured strong diplomatic symbolism, including a state banquet, military honours and a rare visit to Zhongnanhai, the headquarters of China’s Communist Party leadership.

Xi later accepted Trump’s invitation for another summit at the White House in September.

Technology cooperation remained a major topic as executives including Elon Musk and Jensen Huang joined the US delegation.

Discussions reportedly covered AI regulations and access to advanced semiconductor technology, although American officials insisted export restrictions on AI chips were not central to the talks.

Taiwan emerged as a sensitive issue during the summit. Xi warned that mishandling Taiwan could damage China-US relations and potentially trigger conflict.

Meanwhile, both leaders also discussed the Middle East crisis and efforts to reopen shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz following tensions linked to Iran.

While no major agreements were officially signed, both governments pledged to continue discussions aimed at stabilising trade relations between the world’s two biggest economies.