Xi Jinping, Donald Trump discuss Iran, Ukraine, trade, Taiwan in Beijing

Chinese President Xi Jinping and US President Donald Trump have discussed Iran, Ukraine, trade and Taiwan in Beijing, according to Chinese state media CCTV.

It reported that the handshake between the two leaders during the American president’s visit to the Great Hall of the People was free of any overt signs of rivalry.

The greeting at the eastern gate of the Great Hall of the People lasted around 14 seconds.

Trump reportedly patted Xi Jinping’s hand several times in a friendly manner and, unlike previous occasions, did not attempt to pull it.

The leaders also exchanged remarks that were not broadcast.

Trump’s visit will end on May 15.

According to media reports, his visit is aimed at easing trade tensions and discussing key international issues, including the conflict involving Iran.

Chinese state media said the two sides also addressed the situation in the Middle East and the war in Ukraine.

Western outlets reported that one of the topics of discussion may have been the possibility of involving China in mediation efforts related to the Iran conflict.

Xi Jinping, meanwhile, called for the development of “constructive and strategically stable” relations between the two countries and proposed expanding cooperation in trade, agriculture, healthcare and tourism.

He also stressed the importance of a cautious US approach to Taiwan, stating that “Taiwan independence and peace in the Taiwan Strait are incompatible.”

By Bakhtiyar Abbasov