Trump Greets Xi Jinping at Joint Base Andrews for State Visit

President Donald Trump greeted Chinese President Xi Jinping on the tarmac at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland on Wednesday evening. This welcome is notable as U.S. presidents typically receive foreign leaders at the White House. Trump met Xi at the foot of the stairs as he stepped off his plane, and First Lady Melania Trump was also present to welcome Xi and his wife, Peng Liyuan. Xi is in Washington for a three-day state visit, during which the two leaders are expected to discuss trade, artificial intelligence, and security at the White House on Thursday. White House spokesperson Anna Kelly stated that Trump was reciprocating the hospitality Xi showed him during his visit to China. Kelly noted, "President Xi hosted President Trump in China for a historic summit this summer, and President Trump is reciprocating his hospitality by welcoming the Chinese delegation for a reciprocal visit this week."