BEIJING: Chinese President Xi Jinping has called for China and the United States to be “partners, not rivals” ahead of crucial talks with US President Donald Trump in Beijing.

Responding to Xi’s remarks, Trump described the Chinese leader as a “great leader” and said relations between the two global powers would become “better than ever before.”

Despite the warm public statements, several sensitive issues are expected to dominate the discussions, including tariffs, technological competition, the Iran war, and tensions over Taiwan.

Before the formal meeting, Xi welcomed Trump on the red carpet outside Great Hall of the People.

The two leaders shook hands as cheering children greeted them and troops conducted an inspection ceremony.

Trump arrived in Beijing alongside major US technology executives, including Elon Musk of Tesla and Jensen Huang of Nvidia.

Ahead of the visit, Trump said he would urge China to “open up” further to American industries.

Trump, who last visited China in 2017, has returned to a more powerful and assertive China that is increasingly presenting itself as a stable global force.

The two leaders are also scheduled to attend a state banquet later this evening.