As US President Donald Trump continues a closely-watched visit to Beijing to speak with Chinese President Xi Jinping about trade and security, Europe is anxiously wondering how it will fit into what comes out.
Good morning. Angela Skujins penning this Thursday’s newsletter from the Belgian capital, where I can say with quiet confidence that everyone not enjoying the public holiday has their eyes firmly fixed to what is happening nearly 8,000 kilometres to the east.
Before US President Donald Trump departed the White House on Tuesday for an almost 14-hour flight to the Chinese capital, he outlined in plain English the importance of the visit. “We’re the two superpowers,” he said unabashedly.
“We’re the strongest nation on earth in terms of military. China’s considered second,” Trump said.
After landing, both presidents expressed hope that the meeting – seen as the most consequential bilateral of 2026 – would bear fruit regarding the Iran war, trade and Taiwan.