Trump welcomes Xi for crucial talks
UNITED STATES: After greeting Chinese President Xi Jinping at the airport, Secretary of State Rex Tillerson said the US side would press the Chinese delegation to ‘‘find ways to exercise influence on North Korea’s actions to dismantle their nuclear weapons and their missile technology programme.’’
‘‘China can be part of a new strategy to end North Korea’s reckless behaviour and ensure security, stability and economic prosperity in Northeast Asia,’’ Tillerson added.
Trump, accompanied by first lady Melania Trump, greeted Xi with a handshake as the Chinese leader and his wife Peng Liyuan arrived at the resort for a series of bilateral talks, and a fancy opening night dinner with Trump and his top aides.
Trump arrived aboard Air Force One shortly after Xi. While flying, Trump told reporters on the plane that he believes ‘‘China will be stepping up’’ to deal more firmly with Pyongyang.
On trade, Trump reiterated his long-standing grievance over a large US trade deficit to China. ’’We have been treated unfairly and have made terrible trade deals with China for many, many years. That’s one of the things we are going to be talking about.’’
The unorthodox location of the summit is intended to lessen the formality of the first meeting between the two leaders, White House aides said, and help establish a working relationship, if not rapport, between Trump and Xi after moments of tension during the US election season.
Xi will spend just over 24 hours there, officials said. Xi and the Chinese delegation will stay at a nearby hotel. - Washington Post