Trump Inauguration
China announced on Friday that Vice President Han Zheng will represent President Xi Jinping at the inauguration of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, signaling Beijing’s intent to foster dialogue with the incoming administration.
Trump, who secured re-election in November, is set to be sworn into office in Washington on Monday.
In a break from tradition, Trump’s transition team confirmed last month that the president-elect had extended invitations to Xi Jinping and other world leaders to attend the inauguration ceremony.
While Xi will not be attending in person, the Chinese foreign ministry clarified that Han Zheng will participate as Xi’s “special representative.”
A spokesperson for the ministry emphasized China’s commitment to maintaining constructive ties with the United States. “China follows the principles of mutual respect, peaceful coexistence, and win-win cooperation in managing and advancing its relationship with the United States,” the spokesperson said. “We are prepared to work with the new U.S. government to enhance dialogue and communication, effectively manage differences, and jointly pursue a stable, healthy, and sustainable China-U.S. relationship.”
The statement also highlighted Beijing’s willingness to find common ground with Washington, despite the challenges that have marked bilateral ties in recent years.
During Trump’s first term, the U.S. and China were embroiled in a contentious trade war, with the Trump administration imposing heavy tariffs on Chinese imports.
Trump accused Beijing of engaging in unfair trade practices and vowed to introduce tougher measures to counteract what he described as economic imbalances.
Trump’s rhetoric has also included sharp criticism of China’s role in the fentanyl crisis, which has had a devastating impact on the U.S. These issues are likely to remain contentious as Trump begins his second term.
Despite past tensions, China’s decision to send a high-ranking official to Trump’s inauguration reflects a strategic effort to stabilize relations and seek a more cooperative framework moving forward.
