US and China Leaders Meet to Discuss Trade, AI and Cooperation

WASHINGTON — On 24 September 2026, former U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping met in a private forum to discuss trade tensions, cooperation on global issues and the risks posed by artificial intelligence. The meeting was covered by Aljazeera, CGTN, Voice of Emirates and Business Insider Africa, all of which reported that the leaders exchanged views on how the two powers could manage competition while avoiding conflict.

Trade and Economic Ties

The discussion began with trade. Trump highlighted the need to reduce the U.S. trade deficit with China and to address what he described as unfair tariff practices. Xi acknowledged that China had increased its imports of U.S. agricultural products but also reiterated that China would not lower its own tariffs on American goods without reciprocal action. The two leaders agreed to keep the dialogue open and to explore a framework for resolving disputes through the World Trade Organization.

Artificial Intelligence: Cooperation and Risk Management

Both leaders underscored that artificial intelligence is a strategic priority for their respective countries. Trump said that the United States must maintain a technological edge while ensuring that AI development does not lead to a new arms race. Xi echoed that China and the U.S. are “two major powers in artificial intelligence” and that cooperation is essential to prevent misuse of the technology. The leaders agreed to set up a joint task force to monitor AI applications in defense, cybersecurity and public health.

Global Issues and Regional Concerns

The meeting also touched on Africa, where Trump and Xi expressed divergent views. Trump emphasized the importance of U.S. investment in African infrastructure and the need to counter Chinese influence. Xi highlighted China’s Belt and Road Initiative and its role in financing African development projects. Both leaders agreed to maintain a constructive engagement on African affairs, citing the need for multilateral solutions.

Public and Media Reactions

In the United States, the meeting was reported by Aljazeera as a “high‑profile” event, noting that it was the first time a former U.S. president had met with a sitting Chinese leader in a formal setting. CGTN’s coverage focused on the Americans’ desire for more communication and cooperation with China, suggesting that the meeting could signal a shift in U.S. policy toward a more collaborative stance.

Voice of Emirates highlighted Xi’s remarks that the U.S. and China must jointly manage AI risks, while Business Insider Africa noted that the leaders discussed global issues beyond trade, including climate change and pandemic preparedness.

Both sides have not yet released formal statements on the outcomes of the meeting. However, the dialogue is expected to influence future policy decisions in trade, technology and international cooperation.