Detroit, MI, September 18, 2026 — President Donald Trump is set to receive Chinese leader Xi Jinping for a state visit to the United States next week. The arrival is scheduled to take place at Joint Base Andrews, a military installation located outside of Washington D.C.

In a move that deviates from established presidential customs, President Trump has indicated he will personally greet President Xi upon his arrival at the Maryland-based airbase. Traditionally, state visits involving foreign heads of state are often hosted at the White House, with welcoming ceremonies and official engagements occurring on the grounds of the presidential residence in Washington D.C.

The decision to hold the arrival and greet the Chinese leader at Joint Base Andrews signifies a departure from President Trump’s typical protocol for receiving foreign dignitaries. While specific details regarding the full itinerary of President Xi’s visit were not immediately available, the location chosen for the initial greeting suggests a different approach to the initial stages of the diplomatic engagement.

State visits are formal occasions designed to strengthen bilateral relations between countries. They typically involve a series of high-level meetings, diplomatic events, and discussions on a range of bilateral and international issues. The choice of Joint Base Andrews for the initial reception and President Trump’s personal involvement in greeting President Xi are notable aspects of the planned visit.

The upcoming state visit is expected to be closely watched, given the ongoing dynamics of the relationship between the United States and China. Further details about the duration of the visit and the agenda for the meetings are anticipated to be released as the date approaches.


Story summarized from the original created by Darlene Superville, Associated Press on www.clickondetroit.com, see more information here.

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