Trump Meets Xi in Highly Secured Zhongnanhai Amidst Tight Security

US President Donald Trump met Chinese President Xi Jinping at China's Zhongnanhai complex. The leaders strolled through the gardens and held a brief private discussion. The meeting set the stage for further talks, highlighting a contrast between Zhongnanhai's serenity and Beijing's bustling environment.

US President Donald Trump engaged in talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping at the heavily secured Zhongnanhai compound in Beijing on a two-day visit. The leaders' meeting began on Friday morning, featuring a stroll through the lush gardens before retreating to a private discussion devoid of media presence, CNN reported.

Considered China's political nerve center, Zhongnanhai mirrors the US White House. It spreads over 1,500 acres and encompasses lakes, gardens, and government offices, making it one of China's most fortified and confidential sites.

Trump reportedly admired the idyllic landscape as Xi guided him around the serene premises that starkly contrasted Beijing's vibrant hustle outside. Their private interaction reportedly lasted 10 minutes, after which they resumed their garden walk, with Trump lauding the roses' beauty.

When questioned by reporters about his experience, Trump responded positively with a thumbs-up while Chinese officials maintained stringent controls over media queries, instructing journalists with 'no questions'. The leaders then traversed a corridor adorned with traditional art before Xi provided a historical overview of Zhongnanhai through a translator.

Among Trump's entourage were Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. CNN noted that Xi gifted Trump rose seeds. Intense negotiations are slated to continue over tea later, with smaller delegations aimed at deeper engagement.

Trump's condensed team also includes US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer and US Ambassador to China David Perdue. Xi's delegation featured officials like Chief of Staff Cai Qi, Foreign Minister Wang Yi, and China's Ambassador to the US Xie Feng.