US President Donald Trump Arrives in Beijing for State Visit

Kathmandu. US President Donald Trump landed in Beijing on Wednesday evening. Trump, who arrived from Air Force One, was welcomed by China with great fanfare and respect. 

During this two-day visit, serious discussions are expected between the world's two superpowers on issues of trade tariffs, technological competition, the Iran war, and relations with Taiwan.

Compared to his previous visit in 2017, Trump is facing a more powerful and determined China this time. On the other hand, Trump himself is under pressure due to the ongoing military campaign in West Asia. In fact, this visit was scheduled for last March, but it was postponed due to the war between the US and Israel with Iran. That war continues to affect the global economy.

In the past, lower-level leaders had welcomed him, but this time China sent Vice President Han Zheng himself to the airport to honor Trump. This has been seen as a high level of respect shown by Beijing towards America. Along with Trump's son Eric Trump, American tech heavyweights like Elon Musk of Tesla and Jensen Huang of Nvidia were also present on the red carpet at the airport.

Before landing, Trump posted on social media stating that he would urge Chinese President Xi Jinping to further open up the Chinese market. Trump claims that if these influential businessmen get the opportunity to work in China, it will help elevate the People's Republic of China to a higher level. He clarified that this would be his first demand in the meeting with Xi.

The issue of the Iran war is expected to be the most pressing topic in the discussions. China depends on Iran for its oil imports, but supply has been almost halted after the Strait of Hormuz was blocked. The US is pressuring China to use its political and economic influence on Iran, while Beijing and Tehran have decades-long friendship and trade partnerships.

The Taiwan issue may also cause tension in the meeting. Although the Trump administration has decided to sell a large quantity of weapons to Taiwan, it has maintained an ambiguous policy regarding defense in the event of a Chinese invasion. 
In terms of trade, Trump will pressure for increased purchase of American agricultural products, while China is expected to push for a reduction in US tariffs.