Trump-Xi Talks: US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping held high-level talks in Beijing on Thursday. The two leaders focused on strengthening US-China relations and addressing tensions around Iran and the Strait of Hormuz. They stressed the importance of cooperation between the world’s two largest economies at a time of rising instability in global trade routes and ongoing attacks near the vital waterway.

Xi Calls Ties 'Most Consequential'

Later, in a banquet held in honour of Trump, Jinping called the US-China relationship the world’s most consequential and warned both countries that they must "make it work and never mess it up." He stressed that cooperation between the world’s two largest economies is very important for global stability and peace. "Both China and the United States stand to gain from cooperation and lose from confrontation. Our two countries should be partners rather than rivals," Jinping said.

He further highlighted that both nations could "help each other succeed and advance the wellbeing of the whole world." Jinping said, "The people of China and the United States are both great people. Achieving the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation and making America great again can go hand in hand." In his address, Trump also acknowledged the long-standing relationship between Washington and Beijing.

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Trump said, "This bond of commerce and respect that stretches back 250 years is the foundation for a future that benefits both of our nations. The American and Chinese people share much in common, we value hardwork, we value courage and achievement, we love our families, we love our countries. Together, we have the chance to draw these values to create a future of greater prosperity, cooperation and happiness, and peace for our children."

Xi-Trump Discuss Iran War And Hormuz Crisis

The statement urging cooperation comes after Trump and Jinping earlier held talks on the Strait of Hormuz situation and Iran situation. According to a Reuters report, citing a White House official, the leaders agreed that the Strait "should be open" and that Iran "should never obtain nuclear weapons." China, which is close to Iran and the main buyer of its oil, was also part of the discussion on regional stability.

Attacks Continue In Strait Of Hormuz

Meanwhile, multiple reports indicate continued attacks on vessels near the Strait of Hormuz, even as diplomatic efforts continue. In the latest incident along the trade route, India said one of its ships came under attack off the coast of Oman. It did not immediately give further details but confirmed that all crew members were safe.

Separately, the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported that "unauthorised personnel" boarded a ship anchored off the coast of Fujairah in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and were steering it towards Iran. All these incidents have raised fresh security concerns near the strategic waterway.

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