Xi-Trump summit needs more than trade wins, experts say

The upcoming summit between President Xi Jinping and his US counterpart Donald Trump presents a critical opportunity to stabilize bilateral relations, but the focus must extend beyond mere trade transactions. While commercial agreements, such as soybean and aircraft orders, and tariff reductions can offer short-term relief and boost business confidence, they are insufficient to address the deeper complexities underlying the US-China relationship.

Analysts and former diplomats emphasize the need to tackle pressing issues like healthcare, climate change, technological decoupling, and artificial intelligence governance. The lack of thorough preparation, described as "malpractice-like," poses a significant risk of preventing meaningful progress on security and people-to-people exchanges, which are vital for enduring stability.

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a number of transaction wins, with probably soybean and aircraft orders and further tariff reductions, which will help stabilise the mood in the business community

From our perspective at the South China Morning Post, it is imperative that both leaders seize this moment not just for economic wins, but to lay the groundwork for a more robust and comprehensive partnership. Focusing solely on trade risks overlooking the fundamental challenges and opportunities that will shape the future of our nations and the world.

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malpractice-like