After Beijing Summit: Xi, Trump, and What Comes Next

The Trump-Xi summit signals a shift in bilateral relations toward a framework of "constructive strategic stability," acknowledging the reality of intense, managed competition rather than previous "win-win" rhetoric. While this framing reflects Beijing’s growing self-confidence and a desire for stability through 2027, it remains largely aspirational, failing to resolve fundamental contradictions like the war in Ukraine or China’s alignment with revisionist partners. The summit highlighted the risks of highly personalized, leader-driven diplomacy, particularly regarding Taiwan, where shifting U.S. rhetoric has unsettled regional allies. With few concrete economic deliverables achieved, the relationship remains fragile, characterized by weaponized trade choke points and a reliance on future high-level meetings to prevent backsliding. The upcoming months will test whether this new framework can move beyond symbolic gestures to address substantive security and economic tensions.