The summit between U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping has been scheduled for May 13-15, after both the White House and China's Foreign Ministry confirmed. Analysts say the meeting is marked by a power imbalance between the two sides.
In recent months, the global geopolitical landscape has shifted rapidly. Washington has repeatedly emphasized the summit's importance, while Beijing approaches cautiously, seeing it as part of the need for “dialogue” and “strategic guidance” among major powers.
The main reason for the U.S. weak position is its military campaign in Iran. After launching operations with Israel, U.S. forces are bogged down in the Middle East. Tehran has effectively blockaded the Strait of Hormuz, with over a dozen U.S. warships involved in the blockade, forcing dozens of vessels to change course, shaking global energy markets and raising fears of a world economic recession.
In this context, top U.S. officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, have publicly called on China to intervene and persuade Iran to reopen this vital waterway. This contrasts with Washington's usual tough rhetoric.
However, even while appealing for Beijing's help, the Trump administration maintains a confrontational stance on issues like technology restrictions. This inconsistency suggests Washington is acting out of desperation.
In contrast to U.S. expectations, Beijing has handled the Hormuz crisis well, thanks to its oil reserves, diversified supply chains, and strong domestic production. China views the crisis as a stress test and has passed it successfully.
Rather than simply pressuring Iran to reopen the strait, Beijing is positioning itself to demand a comprehensive “grand bargain,” including an end to U.S. hostilities with Iran, lifting sanctions, and accepting a new multipolar security structure in the Middle East.
At the summit, the Taiwan issue is expected to be a focal point. Beijing is likely to demand that the U.S. formally oppose Taiwan independence, going beyond the current pledge of “not supporting” separatist forces. Recognizing Trump's urgent need for a favorable outcome, China may leverage its advantage for strategic concessions.
Another Beijing priority is securing guarantees on Japan's rearmament. As Tokyo expands its military capabilities and signals readiness to intervene on Taiwan, China will ask Washington to restrain its ally.
Overall, Beijing is positioning itself as a responsible power, calling on the international community to de-escalate tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, in stark contrast to the U.S., which is waging what many see as an unjust war.
Experts say the upcoming summit is not only crucial for the future of U.S.-China relations but also for resolving the Iran conflict and shaping the global order. With strategic patience and growing leverage, China enters the summit with the upper hand.
