President-elect Donald Trump has invited Chinese Premier Xi Jinping to attend his inauguration in January, despite ongoing trade tensions between their countries.
Trump’s incoming press secretary, Karoline Leavitt, confirmed on Thursday that the invitation had been sent, but added that it was yet “to be determined” whether Xi would accept.
She said during a Fox News interview: “This is an example of President Trump creating an open dialogue with leaders of countries that are not just our allies, but our adversaries and competitors too.”
Leavitt also stressed that Trump had a history of engaging with all world leaders while prioritizing American interests.
Alex Brandon/AP
Why are Tensions High Between the U.S. and China?
The invitation to Xi was first reported by CBS News. The announcement came as Trump was attending an event at the New York Stock Exchange, where, for the first time, he rang the opening bell to start the trading day.
In his comments, Trump hinted that he had been “thinking about inviting certain people” to the inauguration, describing the idea as “a little risky.” He added, “We like to take little chances.”
Leavitt also said that other foreign leaders had been invited, though she did not provide any names.
The invitation comes as Trump has threatened to impose large tariffs on countries including China, Canada, and Mexico as part of his broader strategy to address illegal immigration and the flow of drugs like fentanyl into the U.S.
Silvia Izquierdo/AP
Why Does Trump Want to Impose Trade Tariffs on China?
Trump has vowed to impose a 25 percent tariff on all goods from Canada and Mexicoon his first day in office, while threatening even higher tariffs for China.
While China is a major source of precursor chemicals used in the production of fentanyl, Beijing has taken steps in recent years to curb the export of these substances.
In November, during a meeting with President Joe Biden, Xi urged the U.S. to avoid escalating trade tensions. “Make the wise choice,” he said, emphasizing the need for both nations to find a constructive path forward.
How will U.S. Trade Tariffs Affect Canada?
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has also opposed Trump’s tariff threats, warning that such measures would harm the U.S. economy.
In response, Trump dismissed Trudeau’s concerns, calling Canada a “state” and referring to the prime minister as the “governor.”
As Trump prepares for his second term, his approach to foreign relations—particularly with countries like China—remains a focal point of his presidency.
This article contains additional reporting from The Associated Press.