US President Donald Trump will host Chinese President Xi Jinping in Washington this week, in a meeting that comes at a time when relations between the world's two largest economies remain tense.
Xi's visit to the US begins on Wednesday and is his first to Washington in 10 years. It will be the third meeting between the two leaders since Trump returned to the White House. While no major deal is expected, both sides aim to maintain a steady dialogue and avoid a new escalation of tensions.
From trade war to more controlled competition
The US and China have eased tensions from last year's trade war, when they imposed steep tariffs on each other. However, the competition between them continues.
Both countries are using more focused measures, such as restrictions on certain companies and products, instead of broad tariffs that risk damaging global trade.
The US aims to maintain its technological and economic advantage, while China is trying to strengthen its position in the global economy and order.
Artificial intelligence, another front of conflict
One of the main issues between the two countries is artificial intelligence (AI).
The US has restricted exports to China of the most advanced chips used for AI development and has accused some Chinese companies of using American models to develop their technologies.
Beijing has opposed these measures, accusing the US of trying to limit the development of the Chinese AI industry.
However, there are also efforts at cooperation between the two countries. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said that Washington has proposed a mechanism for reporting AI-related incidents that could pose a risk to national security.
Iran and Taiwan, two other difficult issues
The Trump-Xi meeting is expected to discuss other important issues, including Iran and Taiwan. The Trump administration is trying to isolate Iran economically, while China continues to maintain trade relations with Tehran. China is the largest buyer of Iranian oil and one of Iran's main trading partners.
Washington has so far been cautious in imposing new measures on China over its relations with Iran, so as not to damage the meeting between Trump and Xi.
Another flashpoint remains Taiwan, which China considers part of its territory, while the US has legal obligations to help the island strengthen its defense capabilities.
The meeting in Washington thus takes place in a climate where the US and China are trying to maintain stable relations, while at the same time continuing to compete for trade, technology and global influence.