Ahead of Planned Trump-Xi Meeting: US and China Discuss Cooperation on Artificial Intelligence

Greer described the relationship between the two countries as the most important in the world. "These are the two most powerful countries on earth, whether it's in trade or AI, and it's imperative that they're able to work together. It doesn't mean there aren't challenges in the relationship. A lot of these are obvious," Greer said. The remark made clear that Washington is signaling its willingness to talk despite existing differences.

On the Chinese side, Vice Premier He Lifeng led the delegation. He is responsible for trade relations with the US and is considered one of Beijing's most experienced negotiators. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent was also involved in the coordination. The consultations took place ahead of a possible face-to-face meeting between Trump and Xi, which, according to several observers, could take place on the sidelines of upcoming international forums.

AI as Focus of the Talks

A focal point of the discussions was the handling of artificial intelligence. Both countries have made massive investments in AI infrastructure in recent months and are competing for technological leadership. At the same time, there is a growing recognition in both capitals that uncontrolled AI development carries risks that can only be limited through international coordination.

The economic dynamic in Asia underscores the importance of bilateral relations. South Korea's benchmark Kospi index alone has gained roughly two-thirds in value since the end of 2025, driven primarily by semiconductor and AI companies. This upswing makes clear how closely capital markets and the technological race are now intertwined.

From the US perspective, there is also the question of how Beijing controls Chinese companies' access to high-performance chips. Washington has imposed export restrictions on advanced semiconductors in recent years. China, for its part, has taken retaliatory measures regarding rare earths that are relevant to US industry.

Trade Conflicts Remain in the Background

The diplomatic moves come against the backdrop of a strained trade environment. While there had been individual rapprochements between Washington and Beijing in recent months, fundamental differences over subsidies, market access, and industrial policy persist. According to observers, a face-to-face meeting between Trump and Xi could pave the way for a political solution.

Observers in Washington assess the recent consultations as a sign that both sides are betting on de-escalation. However, no formal agreement on AI cooperation has been announced so far. If concrete arrangements are reached at the planned summit meeting, they could have a lasting impact on the global technology race.

The US government emphasizes that cooperation with China does not mean softening existing differences. Greer pointed out that there are "obvious challenges" in the relationship. This wording signals that Washington wants to maintain both its willingness to cooperate and its own positions in the upcoming talks.

Outlook on Possible Summit Meeting

Meanwhile, Chinese state media are preparing broad coverage of a possible Trump-Xi meeting. If it takes place, it would be the first face-to-face encounter between the two heads of state in some time and would attract considerable international attention.

Analysts see the parallel handling of trade and AI issues as a new pattern in US-China diplomacy. Whereas trade issues used to dominate, future technologies are increasingly moving to the center. Both governments evidently recognize that questions of artificial intelligence cannot be resolved without the other side.