Trump broke protocol to welcome Xi Jinping, 11 years after the Chinese president arrived in the US

Chinese President Xi Jinping has arrived on a three-day visit to America. President Donald Trump welcomed him at Joint Base Andrews in Washington. Trump and first lady Melania Trump were present at a military base in Maryland for Xi Jinping’s arrival ceremony. Peng Liyuan, wife of Xi Jinping, was also there. Rather than waiting for the guest to arrive at the White House, it is rare for the US President to personally greet a foreign leader at the airport.

Xi Jinping has made an official visit to the US after more than 11 years. His visit comes at a time when the US and China are at odds over issues like trade, artificial intelligence, Iran and Taiwan. The three-day program will include high-level diplomatic talks as well as several formal events. This includes a formal state dinner at the White House on Thursday.

This is how we were greeted at the airport

Trump and Melania arrived at Joint Base Andrews by Marine One before Xi’s arrival. After this, the President along with his motorcade arrived at the reception venue, where a military honor guard band and other contingents were present.

#View | Chinese President Xi Jinping and First Lady Peng Liyuan arrive in the United States; US President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump welcomed him at Joint Base Andrews pic.twitter.com/ttOtyjlEnX

— ANI (@ANI) September 23, 2026

The whole program was organized by Melania herself

Preparations were made for the reception at the airport. A black car and a limousine were parked near the asphalt. Also the Air Force Band was marching. Various US Army personnel were also present before Xi’s arrival. Instead of waiting at the White House, Trump decided to welcome Xi at the airport. This is considered a very special and personal reception for a foreign leader. This was done because Trump received a similar grand reception in China this year.

Melania said that her husband welcomed her personally as they have a very good relationship. He said, he is coming to our land, so we should welcome him with full respect. Melania also said that she herself was very involved in planning the entire event for Xi Jinping and his wife. He said, I was involved in every little thing.