Trump-Xi summit live: Powers ‘should be partners, not adversaries,’ Xi says

Chinese President Xi Jinping called for China and the United States to become partners rather than adversaries during a summit with US President Donald Trump in Shanghai on May 13, 2026. The remarks mark a notable diplomatic shift amid ongoing tensions and are confirmed as part of Xi’s opening speech at the summit.

The summit took place at the Great Hall of the People in Shanghai, with both leaders participating in formal talks and a public exchange of remarks. Xi Jinping emphasized the need for major powers to work together on global issues, stating, “These are questions of history, questions of the world, and questions of the people.” He explicitly called for China and the US to be “partners, not adversaries,” highlighting the importance of cooperation over confrontation. President Trump acknowledged the warm welcome and expressed optimism about improving bilateral relations, describing Xi as a “great leader” and stating, “The relationship between China and the USA is going to be better than ever before.” The summit also involved discussions on trade, security, and global stability, though specific agreements have not yet been announced.

Why It Matters

This summit’s emphasis on partnership signals a potential shift in China-US relations, which have been strained over trade, technology, and geopolitical issues. If the rhetoric translates into substantive cooperation, it could impact global markets, regional stability, and international diplomacy. However, the actual outcomes remain uncertain as negotiations continue.

Background

Relations between China and the US have been tense over trade disputes, technological competition, and regional security concerns, including Taiwan and the South China Sea. Previous high-level meetings have often been marked by mutual suspicion, though both sides have expressed interest in stabilizing ties. The current summit follows a period of heightened diplomatic efforts amid global uncertainties such as the Iran conflict and AI development race.

“These are questions of history, questions of the world, and questions of the people. They are also the answers that you and I, as leaders of major powers, must jointly write for our times.”

— Xi Jinping

“The U.S. and China should be partners, not adversaries.”

— Xi Jinping

“The relationship between China and the USA is going to be better than ever before.”

— Donald Trump

What Remains Unclear

It is still unclear whether the summit will lead to concrete agreements or policy changes. While rhetoric has shifted towards cooperation, the specifics of any future collaboration or resolutions to existing conflicts remain undisclosed and are likely to develop in the coming weeks.

What’s Next

Next steps include follow-up negotiations on trade, security, and global issues, with both sides possibly announcing joint initiatives. Monitoring statements from both leaders and official communiques will indicate whether the summit results in substantive progress or remain rhetorical.

Key Questions

What are the main goals of this summit?

The summit aims to improve bilateral relations, address global issues like trade and security, and foster cooperation between China and the US.

Did Xi Jinping and Donald Trump reach any agreements?

As of now, no specific agreements have been announced. The summit’s focus was on diplomatic tone and establishing a cooperative framework.

Why is Xi Jinping calling for partnership now?

Xi likely seeks to reduce tensions, stabilize relations, and promote global stability amid ongoing international challenges and competition with the US.

What issues are likely to be discussed further?

Future talks are expected to cover trade, technology, regional security, and global challenges like Iran and AI development.