Trump gives Xi rare welcome at military base before Washington summit

Photo: Lissaa Spiridonova / Pexels In an unexpected diplomatic gesture, U.S. President Donald Trump personally welcomed Chinese President Xi Jinping at Joint Base Andrews before their scheduled summit in Washington. This rare protocol break underscores the significance of Xi’s first visit to the United States in nearly three years, highlighting the importance of ongoing discussions on trade, technology, and international relations. The ceremonial welcome, featuring a red carpet and military flyover, suggests a warmer reception than usual, which may influence subsequent interactions between the two leaders. Market participants appear to interpret this high-profile reception as a positive diplomatic indicator, potentially impacting the perceived likelihood of a lengthy handshake between Trump and Xi during their summit. Current market pricing on the duration of the handshake reflects this sentiment, with odds fluctuating as the visit progresses. Key Takeaways The personal welcome from Trump appears to suggest an elevated level of diplomatic engagement, potentially influencing market expectations for the summit’s outcomes. Market pricing suggests increased likelihood of a longer hands...