Trump and Xi Plan Visits Aiming to Reset U.S.–China Relations Amid Tensions

February 12, 2026
Trump and Xi Plan Visits Aiming to Reset U.S.–China Relations Amid Tensions
  • The summit signaling a U.S.–China reset is ahead, with Trump planning a April visit to China for a meeting with Xi Jinping, and Xi expected to reciprocate with a U.S. visit later in the year.

  • A recent 90-minute call between Trump and Xi centered on trade, avoiding Iran and Ukraine, and was described by Trump as constructive and beneficial for both countries.

  • Trump framed the bilateral relationship as very good and stressed the importance of maintaining strong ties between the world’s two leading powers.

  • Analysts caution that deep structural disagreements remain on technology, market access, and security, suggesting any extension of truce or talks may be temporary and aimed at setting guardrails rather than full resolution.

  • The summit is seen as potentially resetting tone and establishing guardrails, rather than delivering comprehensive fixes to enduring conflicts.

  • High-level channels remain open despite tensions, with ongoing competition in trade, technology, and security and a focus on Indo-Pacific dynamics.

  • The broader Sino-American rivalry includes tariffs and semiconductor export controls, but the relationship is maintained through diplomatic engagement for potential stability.

  • A truce negotiated in Busan last October rolled back some tariffs and export controls, forming the basis for current talks and potential extension to a year.

  • The current trade framework began with a meeting in Busan and is being treated as a stepping stone toward incremental gains rather than sweeping change.

  • There is discussion about extending the truce by up to a year and potentially rolling back additional tariffs and controls.

  • Washington is pursuing short-term economic wins and tangible deliverables, including commodity purchases, ahead of domestic political timelines.

  • Taiwan remains a core and contentious issue, with China warning against U.S. arms sales and indicating it will be a focal point in spring negotiations.

Summary based on 46 sources


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