US, China in talks for possible Trump-Xi summit in June: WSJ
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The proposed meeting comes at a time when trade tensions between the two nations have intensified.
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US President Donald Trump shakes hands with China's President Xi Jinping during a meeting on the sidelines of the G-20 summit in Osaka, Japan, June 29, 2019 (AP Photo/Susan Walsh, File)
The United States and China have begun discussions about a possible summit between US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping in June, aligning with both leaders' birthdays, according to a report by The Wall Street Journal on Monday.
While still in its initial stages, the proposal suggests that the summit could take place in the United States, as per Washington's preference.
However, Beijing has expressed interest in hosting the meeting in China, sources familiar with the matter told WSJ.
Both Trump and Xi celebrate their birthdays in mid-June—Trump on June 14, 1946, and Xi on June 15, 1953—which has led to the concept of a symbolic "birthday summit."
Talks Amid Rising Trade Tensions
The proposed meeting comes at a time when trade tensions between the two nations have intensified.
The Trump administration has recently increased tariffs on Chinese imports, raising the average duty rate to about 35%.
Washington has justified these actions by citing China's alleged role in the fentanyl crisis and broader economic concerns.
China has responded with its own set of counter-tariffs, aiming to contain the dispute while protecting its domestic economy.
Beijing has also attempted to avoid further escalation, maintaining a more measured stance in recent trade negotiations.
Read more: China’s new tariffs on US goods take effect as consumers adapt
