President Trump’s delegation to China comprises high-ranking administration officials, several of America’s most influential executives, and members of the Trump family. Among them is Secretary of State Marco Rubio, whose presence comes despite China imposing sanctions on him in 2020 over his human rights comments. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth marks the first visit by a sitting defense secretary to China since Jim Mattis in 2018. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent also joins the entourage, having met with China’s Vice Premier He Lifeng in South Korea prior to Mr. Trump’s discussions with Chinese leader Xi Jinping.
Upon arrival in Beijing, Eric Trump, the President’s middle son and head of the Trump Organization, was among those greeted with a red carpet as he disembarked Air Force One. He was accompanied by his wife, Lara Trump, and followed by Elon Musk, a former top adviser to Mr. Trump. Musk’s inclusion signals potentially improved relations between the two men compared to the previous year, and he joins numerous other prominent business leaders invited to the trip.
Film producer and director Brett Ratner was also observed by reporters on Air Force One, where he shared a social media post displaying a welcome note. Ratner, who directed Amazon’s documentary “Melania” about the first lady, Melania Trump, has previously faced and denied allegations of sexual harassment and misconduct from women, making this trip a notable appearance for the filmmaker.
The summit, poised to significantly influence future U.S.-Chinese relations, is scheduled to commence on Thursday. Senior U.S. officials anticipate discussions between Mr. Trump and Mr. Xi will cover trade, investment, the conflict in Iran, and other pressing issues.
Source link