Trump and Xi Jinping’s ‘loving’ relationship has soured - can they rebuild it?

The relationship between Donald Trump and Xi Jinping, the President of China, has changed significantly over time. Once, Trump famously stated that he and Xi 'love each other,' but now their friendship appears to be deteriorating. In a park adjacent to the iconic Temple of Heaven in Beijing, a group of elderly citizens engages in physical exercise. One 74-year-old man expresses his hope that staying active will contribute to a long life. This park, once a sacred site for Chinese emperors praying for good harvests, now serves as a recreational space for retirees who have dedicated their lives to the growth of China. They have witnessed their nation open up to the world and become a formidable economic power, rivaling the United States. However, there is growing concern about the implications of Trump's promises, particularly his intention to impose high tariffs on Chinese goods, which could threaten China's export-driven economy. In China, Trump is often viewed as a source of amusement, with memes of him dancing circulating widely on social media. Yet, there is also a sense of apprehension regarding his unpredictable nature. One pensioner remarks, 'I like Trump, but he’s unstable. Who knows what he might do? ' The recent appointments Trump has made for his cabinet have only heightened these concerns. Marco Rubio, his choice for Secretary of State, has labeled China as 'the threat that will define this century,' while Mike Waltz, his pick for National Security Adviser, has emphasized the need for the US to focus on countering the Chinese Communist Party. Despite the unease among the public, Yu Jie, a Senior Research Fellow at Chatham House, suggests that China has been preparing for a potential second Trump presidency. She warns that the world should brace for a tumultuous relationship as Trump assumes office in January. The competition between the US and China has been escalating for some time, particularly during the Biden administration, which has seen increased tensions over tariffs and geopolitical disputes, including Russia's invasion of Ukraine and the status of Taiwan. While there have been attempts at dialogue, with senior US officials visiting Beijing, President Xi has made it clear that he is willing to collaborate with the incoming Trump administration. However, he also cautioned that a 'new cold war should not be fought and cannot be won. ' Xi's warning reflects China's long-standing belief that the US and its allies are attempting to contain its rise. The imposition of tariffs on Chinese imports, restrictions on access to advanced technology, and military alliances in the South China Sea are viewed as part of this strategy. Trump's selection of Rubio and Waltz indicates a shift towards a more aggressive approach to China, according to Lyle Morris from the Asia Society. While Trump may see his personal relationship with Xi as a means of negotiation, he is likely to rely on his advisors to shape a more uncompromising policy towards China. This perspective is not unique to Trump; many in Washington view China as a significant threat to US security and economic interests, a sentiment that surprises many ordinary citizens in Beijing. One man in the park states, 'You’re much better off here than in the US right now.