China’s three‑day state visit to Washington ended today, closing a rare moment of high‑level engagement between President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping. The visit began with full ceremonial honors marked by a rare planeside welcome at Joint Base Andrews, a 21‑gun salute, military flyover, and a formal state dinner. The pomp and circumstance bestowed up the Chinese leader is the highest level of diplomatic respect the U.S. extends to foreign leaders -- normally allies. The optics stood in stark contrast to the deep tensions that continue to define the U.S.–China relationship, from technology and trade disputes to national‑security concerns and China’s continued purchase of Iranian oil. Throughout the visit, both leaders publicly emphasized partnership despite the geo-political strain. Trump highlighted their “great friendship” and said the two nations had made strides on trade and market access for American farmers. Xi framed the visit as an opportunity to “carry forwar...