There is now reportedly an invitation from US President-elect Donald Trump for Chinese leader Xi Jinping to attend his January 20th inauguration ceremony. CBS News, which disclosed that invitation was issued in early November after Trump’s November 5th election victory, also noted that it was unclear whether Xi would take up the invitation.
If Xi were to attend, he would be the first Chinese leader to attend an American presidential inauguration. According to State Department historical records, the last foreign head of state to attend such a ceremony was in 1874. Foreign dignitaries and diplomats usually represent their countries during this important event.
Trump is scheduled to host several world leaders at the Capitol during the inauguration. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, a close ally of Trump, is “still considering” whether to attend, according to CBS.
A spokesperson for the Trump transition team indicated that global leaders are eager to engage with the incoming president. “World leaders are lining up to meet with President Trump because they know he will soon return to power and restore peace through American strength around the globe,” said Karoline Leavitt.
Notably, French President Emmanuel Macron has already hosted Trump at the Paris reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral alongside Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also met with Trump at Mar-a-Lago to discuss tariffs.
Trump has also made claims during his campaign about a “strong relationship” with Xi, but the inclusion of China-hawk leaders in his cabinet could have potential impacts on the U.S.-China trade relations. He promised steep tariffs if China invades Taiwan and already suggested imposing a 10% universal import tariff with a 60% tariff against Chinese imports. Meanwhile, Reuters reported that Chinese leaders are considering allowing the Yuan to weaken in response to the potential tariff threats from Trump.
