Trump’s Xi Meeting Draws GOP Criticism Over Ceremonial Welcome

President Donald Trump’s September 23 meeting with Chinese leader Xi Jinping in Washington drew criticism from some Republicans over its ceremonial welcome, while administration officials defended the engagement as a way to advance U.S. interests. The two-day summit brought the leaders together amid trade tensions and disagreements over China’s policies, but the available accounts do not establish what they agreed in private discussions. The visit featured an unusually prominent reception, including Trump greeting Xi at Joint Base Andrews. A White House arrival ceremony and military review were scheduled for September 24. The hospitality prompted objections from Republican Sen. Roger Wicker, chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, who urged Trump to raise China’s military buildup and its support for Iran. Four other senators also wrote a letter reiterating concerns about Taiwan, according to one report. White House spokeswoman Anna Kelly said Trump was reciprocating Xi’s hospitality after visiting China over the summer and would build relationships to advance U.S. national interests.