<p>President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping exchanged compliments during a state dinner at the White House on September 24, 2026.</p>
<p>The dinner followed a day of meetings aimed at addressing trade differences and improving the relationship between the United States and China.</p>
<p>Trump and Xi have reportedly developed a friendship over the past decade, which may position them to enhance bilateral relations.</p>
<p>Trump began the evening with remarks lasting over 10 minutes, during which he invited guests to visit the under-construction White House ballroom, marking the first time foreign dignitaries have been invited to the space.</p>
<p>“I had to do it,” Trump said, referencing the ballroom's long-awaited completion. “It’s one year away from completion — the new ballroom that you’ve heard about — and you will see something that I think you will really love. Presidents have been trying to get this built for 150 years, and I can tell you that tonight, if we had it, we would have had way more than 1,000 people with standing room only.”</p>
<p>Trump highlighted the historical context of U.S.-China relations, noting that America established bilateral relations with China shortly after declaring independence, although the first Chinese delegation did not visit the U.S. until nearly a century later.</p>
<p>“We revive the spirit of that first encounter here on American soil as we are joined by some of the top leaders in business, culture, and government from our own time,” he stated. “As for Americans, we inherit a legacy of faith from Jerusalem to Rome, democracy of ancient Athens, the triumphs of Sparta, and the freedom proclaimed in Philadelphia 250 years ago.”</p>
<p>Trump concluded his remarks by proposing a toast to Xi and the enduring relationship between the two nations, expressing hopes for harmony and success.</p>
<p>Xi's comments also emphasized the importance of U.S.-China relations, referencing historical ties and the need for both countries to act responsibly. He noted, “China and the United States must act as responsible major countries, meet the expectations of our peoples, keep pace with the trend of our times, and explore a new approach for major countries to get along with each other.”</p>
<p>Xi concluded his remarks by highlighting the potential for friendship between the two nations, stating, “Like a river that never stops flowing, history never stands still. The friendship between the two peoples is a worthy cause that holds great promise. Let us join hands and move forward side by side.”</p>
<p><strong>TRUMP GIFTS XI A BALD EAGLE STATUE DURING STATE DINNER</strong></p>
<p>Video of Trump and Xi’s comments is available for viewing.</p>