Rubio Eyes 'Very Positive' Xi Jinping Visit to Washington

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed optimism on Wednesday, anticipating a "very positive" visit from Chinese President Xi Jinping to Washington in September. While the visit has not been officially confirmed, Rubio indicated that the White House expects it to materialize.

His remarks followed a meeting with China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi on the sidelines of a Southeast Asian leaders' summit in Manila. "I think President Xi will have a very positive visit when he comes to Washington," Rubio told reporters. He added that he and Wang had engaged in extensive discussions on the matter.

Rubio acknowledged that the U.S. and China have "significant differences" but stressed the necessity for both countries to work through them. This meeting occurred shortly after the U.S. condemned China's actions in the disputed South China Sea and amid recent accusations by President Donald Trump regarding Chinese interference in U.S. elections, allegations that Beijing vehemently denies.

Meanwhile, Wang urged the United States to "respect China's core interests" and "effectively manage differences" to realize a "year of opportunity" in U.S.-China relations, according to a statement from China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Wang also outlined China's "solemn position" on various "negative statements and actions" by the U.S., though specific issues were not detailed in the statement. This exchange highlights the complex and often tense diplomatic landscape between the two global powers, even as they signal a potential for dialogue.

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