In a break from diplomatic traditions, President-elect Donald Trump has extended a unique invitation to Chinese President Xi Jinping to attend his inauguration in January in Washington, D.C.
Offered to Xi in early November following Trump’s election victory, the invitation is a significant deviation from established diplomatic norms. Historical records from the State Department dating back to 1874 show that no foreign head of state has ever attended a U.S. presidential inauguration.
The Chinese Embassy has yet to provide an official response regarding Xi’s plans. Experts say that Xi is highly unlikely to attend, citing possible apprehensions about being perceived as “a mere guest celebrating the triumph of a foreign leader.”
Trump transition team spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt stated, “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.”
The invitation occurs as Trump gears up to introduce his “America First” policy, which includes potential tariffs against China, Canada, and Mexico. Despite these economic strains, Trump insists that personal ties between leaders are essential for international negotiations.
Trump’s transition headquarters in Palm Beach, Florida has recently welcomed many world leaders, including Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Argentine President Javier Milei. The president-elect also met with French President Emmanuel Macron, Italian Prime Minister Georgia Meloni, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, and Prince William of the United Kingdom, at the Paris reopening of the Notre Dame Cathedral.
Trump and Xi’s relationship is characterized by both collaboration and contention. Trump’s administration initiated a trade war with China during his first term and criticized Beijing’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. Nonetheless, Trump has often lauded his personal bond with Xi, acknowledging their “great chemistry.”
Despite the uncertainty surrounding Xi’s attendance, diplomatic protocol dictates that every country’s chief of mission to the United States will be invited to the inauguration, following a time-honored tradition.
The Trump transition team has assigned particular staff members to oversee diplomatic protocol for the inaugural celebrations. Insiders acquainted with the planning suggest that while Xi may not attend, China’s ambassador to the United States and their spouse are expected to be present at the ceremony.
If Xi accepts the invitation, it could present a prime opportunity for the leaders of the world’s two largest economies to discuss matters such as trade relations and military affairs, as Trump starts his second term.
