Trump offers platitudes while Xi warns of possible confrontation during China summit

BEIJING — President Donald Trump began his trip to Beijing on Thursday by telling Xi Jinping “it’s an honor to be your friend,” even as his Chinese counterpart offered a cautionary warning about avoiding a possible clash between the two nations.

The stark contrast in tone underscored just how far apart the leaders remain on thorny issues including the war in Iran, trade disputes and Washington’s relationship with Taiwan — and suggested that Trump and Xi’s highly anticipated meetings are likely to be longer on pageantry and symbolism than major breakthroughs.

In remarks before their meeting at the Great Hall of the People moved behind closed doors, Trump was full of platitudes, saying of Xi, “You’re a great leader.

Sometimes people don’t like me saying it, but I say it anyway, because it’s true.” “It’s an honor to be with you.

It’s an honor to be your friend,” Trump said before promising that “the relationship between China and the USA is going to be better than ever before.” Xi was darker, expressing hope that the U.S. and China can avoid conflict whil