Rubio anticipates 'very positive' Xi Jinping visit to Washington

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio anticipates a "very positive" visit from Chinese President Xi Jinping to the United States in September. While the visit has not been officially confirmed, Rubio indicated that the White House expects it to proceed, following a meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on the sidelines of a Southeast Asian leaders' summit.

"I think President Xi will have a very positive visit when he comes to Washington," Rubio told reporters in Manila. He noted that he and Wang had engaged in extensive discussions on the matter. Despite acknowledging significant differences between the two countries, Rubio emphasized the necessity for both sides to work through them.

The meeting between Rubio and Wang took place shortly after the United States condemned Beijing's actions in the disputed South China Sea. These tensions were further amplified by recent accusations from former President Donald Trump regarding alleged Chinese interference in U.S. elections, claims that Beijing vehemently denies.

Conversely, Wang urged the United States to "respect China's core interests" and "effectively manage differences... so that this year of opportunity in China-U.S. relations becomes a reality," according to a statement from China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Wang also outlined China's "solemn position" on various negative U.S. statements and actions, though specific issues were not detailed in the statement.

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I think President Xi will have a very positive visit when he comes to Washington.