Donald Trump has extended a rare invitation to Chinese President Xi Jinping to attend his inauguration on January 20, citing their positive past relationship. However, sources indicate that Xi is unlikely to attend, signaling a diplomatic yet unconventional move.
Speaking about the invitation, Trump expressed his desire for Xi to attend, saying, “If he would like to come, I would love to have him. But there is nothing much discussed.” Trump acknowledged that the two leaders had a “very good relationship until COVID,” although there has been some distance since. He also noted, “Just so you understand, he hasn’t either accepted or declined the invitation.”
Trump added, “China and the United States can together solve all the problems in the world.”
Sources familiar with the planning indicated that Xi would likely not attend the inauguration, with China’s ambassador to the U.S. expected to represent Beijing instead. No foreign leader has ever attended a U.S. presidential inauguration, and Trump’s spokeswoman, Karoline Leavitt, explained that the invitation reflects his goal of maintaining “open dialogue with leaders of countries that are not just allies but our adversaries and competitors too.”
Reflecting on his past talks with Xi, Trump described the Chinese leader as “an amazing guy” and emphasized their extensive conversations. The invitation comes as Trump prepares for his second term in office.
