Xi urges ‘Steady Sailing’ in China–U.S. relations as he meets Trump in South Korea

Chinese President Xi Jinping called for calm and cooperation in China–U.S. relations on Thursday, telling U.S. President Donald Trump that the two nations must “navigate through the winds and waves” to keep their partnership on course.

Speaking at their high-profile meeting in Busan, Xi said that despite differences, Beijing and Washington had maintained “overall stability” under their joint leadership.

“Since your reelection, we have spoken on the phone three times, exchanged several letters, and stayed in close contact,” Xi told Trump. “In the face of challenges, we should ensure the steady sailing forward of the giant ship of China–U.S. relations.”

Xi added that the latest round of trade consultations in Kuala Lumpur had produced “basic consensus” on addressing key economic concerns — progress that helped pave the way for this summit.

The meeting comes at a tense moment in bilateral ties, with Washington’s renewed tariffs and Beijing’s restrictions on rare earth exports heightening economic friction. Both sides, however, appear eager to prevent tensions from spilling over into a broader confrontation.

Analysts say Xi’s nautical metaphor underscores China’s push to steady relations with the U.S. while projecting confidence on the global stage.

The Busan talks, they add, could shape the next phase of the world’s most consequential partnership — one that affects global markets, security, and technological competition.