While it remains unclear if Xi has accepted, the mere possibility of his presence is generating significant buzz in political circles and even on social media.

Inviting a foreign leader—particularly one representing a major geopolitical rival—to a U.S. presidential inauguration is highly unusual. Historically, foreign dignitaries have attended these events, but never has a leader of Xi’s stature been asked to witness the transfer of power firsthand.

CNB, citing multiple sources, reported on Wednesday, December 11, 2024, that President-elect Donald Trump extended the invitation to Xi Jinping shortly after his November 5 election victory. The Chinese embassy in Washington has not commented on the matter, leaving analysts and observers speculating about Xi’s potential response.

What is certain, however, is that Trump’s relationship with Xi, while complex, seems to be entering a new phase. Shortly after his election victory, Xi congratulated Trump, expressing hope for a “stable, healthy, and sustainable” relationship between the U.S. and China.

“China and the U.S. will benefit from cooperation and lose from confrontation,” Xi stated.

Proponents argue that Trump’s move could signal a willingness to reset relations between the world’s two largest economies.

Indian tech influencer Manoj Kumar reacted on X, saying, “Interesting move by Trump! Inviting Xi Jinping could signal an intent to improve or at least stabilize U.S.-China relations right from the start of his new term. It will be key to see if Xi accepts and how this impacts international dynamics.”

During Trump’s first term between 2017 and 2021, the U.S.-China trade war heightened tensions, with tariffs and accusations of unfair trade practices dominating the bilateral agenda. Trump has vowed stricter tariffs in his second term, including a 10% levy on Chinese imports unless Beijing takes action on fentanyl trafficking.

Despite this history, Trump maintains that he shares a “good rapport” with Xi, recently revealing that they had communicated earlier this week.

Critics, however, remain sceptical. Shahzad Saleem, a netizen, commented, “Trump’s invitation to Xi Jinping is a bold move, but it’s hard to ignore the irony. For a leader who campaigned on being tough on China, this feels more like rolling out the red carpet for geopolitical theatre.”

This development comes amid heightened tensions in U.S.-China relations, with ongoing trade disputes, restrictions on critical exports, and clashes over technology policies. Beijing has cautioned against “mutually destructive tariff wars,” while Xi continues to call for “peaceful coexistence.”

Whether Xi Jinping accepts Trump’s invitation or not, the gesture underscores Trump’s unpredictable diplomatic strategies. As inauguration day approaches, the global community will watch closely to see how this bold overture unfolds—and what it means for U.S.-China relations moving forward.

Donald Trump’s relationship with Xi Jinping, while complex, seems to be entering a new phase.