Trump Extends Inauguration Invitation to Xi Jinping Despite Tariff Threats

Donald Trump, the incoming President of the United States, has extended an invitation to Chinese President Xi Jinping for his inauguration next month. This gesture comes amid Trump's threats to impose significant tariffs on Chinese goods. Trump's press secretary, Karoline Leavitt, confirmed the invitation but noted that it remains uncertain if Xi will attend. "This is an example of President Trump creating an open dialogue with leaders of countries that are not just our allies, but our adversaries and our competitors too," Leavitt stated on Fox News' "Fox & Friends."

Diplomatic Invitations and Reactions

The invitation to Xi was first reported by CBS News. When questioned about this at a Chinese Foreign Ministry briefing, spokesperson Mao Ning said, "I have nothing to share at present." Leavitt mentioned that other foreign leaders have also been invited but did not provide further details. Inviting a leader from an adversarial nation to such a significant American event is unusual but aligns with Trump's approach to foreign policy, which he likens to business negotiations.

Jim Bendat, a historian and author of "Democracy's Big Day: The Inauguration of Our President," remarked that he was unaware of any previous US inauguration attended by a foreign head of state. "It's not necessarily a bad thing to invite foreign leaders to attend," Bendat commented. "But it sure would make more sense to invite an ally before an adversary." Edward Frantz, a presidential historian at the University of Indianapolis, suggested that the invitation supports Trump's image as a "dealmaker and savvy businessman."

Trump's Approach and International Relations

White House officials have stated that Trump has the discretion to decide who attends his inauguration. John Kirby, White House national security spokesman, described the US-China relationship as both perilous and responsible. Trump hinted at inviting certain individuals during an appearance at the New York Stock Exchange, saying some people found it risky. "And I said, Maybe it is. We'll see. We'll see what happens. But we like to take little chances," Trump remarked.

Meanwhile, Gergely Gulyás, chief of staff for Hungarian President Viktor Orban, one of Trump's vocal supporters globally, confirmed that Orban is not scheduled to attend the inauguration. Orban has faced isolation in Europe due to his stance on Ukraine and his actions against EU efforts regarding Russia's invasion. Recently, Orban met with Trump at Mar-a-Lago.

Every country's chief of mission in the United States will receive an invitation, according to a Trump Inaugural Committee official who spoke anonymously. The invitation coincides with Trump's pledge to impose hefty tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China to curb illegal immigration and drug flow into the US. He plans to implement 25% tariffs on all goods from Mexico and Canada on his first day in office in January.

Trade Tensions and Global Implications

China could face even higher tariffs under Trump's administration. Although China produces chemicals used in fentanyl production, Beijing has increased efforts over the past year to control their export. In a CNBC interview, Trump mentioned discussions with President Xi and other world leaders about various issues.

During a recent meeting in Peru with President Joe Biden, Xi urged the US not to initiate a trade war: "Make the wise choice," Xi advised. "Keep exploring the right way for two major countries to get along well with each other." Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has also criticised Trump's tariff threats, warning they could harm the US economy.

Trudeau stated earlier this week that Americans are realising tariffs on Canadian goods would increase costs significantly and vowed retaliation if Trump proceeds with them. Trump responded by referring to Canada as a state and Trudeau as its governor.

US-China relations are strained over several issues beyond tariffs. The Biden administration accuses China of indirectly supporting Russia's war on Ukraine through increased sales of dual-use components sustaining Russia's military industry. US officials are also frustrated with China's lack of action against North Korea's support for Russia.

North Korea conducts most of its trade with China and has sent thousands of troops to Russia to aid against Ukrainian forces near Kursk. According to US and South Korean intelligence officials, North Korea has also supplied Russia with artillery and munitions.

Trump's inauguration on January 20 coincides with the deadline for ByteDance, TikTok's Chinese parent company, to sell or face a ban in the US.