Trump minds his manners for a smiling Xi at Florida retreat
President known for trampling on diplomatic niceties was on his best behaviour with Chinese counterpart as Mar-a-Lago summit began
Surprisingly, there was no awkward moment at all.
A five-second handshake, praise for the guest’s wife, introduction of cute grandchildren and talks of friendship – it was all there from US President Donald Trump on Thursday. He behaved just like an experienced politician would towards another state leader.
Despite all Trump’s previous harsh comments on China, his first meeting with President Xi Jinping has so far been cordial. What had worried the Chinese the most – the TV reality-show star’s impulsive personality embarrassing Xi – did not happen.
In his excessively long red tie, matching wife Melania’s red dress, Trump greeted Xi and his wife Peng Liyuan at the doorstep of his Mar-a-Lago retreat. He then let the guests enter the room first, which even the face-loving Chinese could have no complaint about.
“I can see Xi and Peng were received in a very cordial way. Trump is very hospitable and friendly,” said Lu Peixin, a former director at the Chinese foreign ministry who was in charge of protocol.
