RRI.CO.ID, Beijing - Chinese President Xi Jinping and U.S. President Donald Trump struck an optimistic tone during a high-level bilateral meeting in Beijing on Thursday, May 14, 2026. Both leaders emphasized the importance of maintaining stable relations between the two countries amid rising global geopolitical and economic tensions.

The meeting, held at the Great Hall of the People, attracted international attention. This is because China and the United States remain engaged in rivalry over economic, technological, trade, and regional security issues.

Despite the tensions, Xi Jinping chose to deliver a more reassuring message during the talks. He stressed that relations between the world’s two major powers should not move toward open conflict.

Xi said Beijing and Washington need to build a new framework for relations in order to avoid falling into what is known as the “Thucydides Trap.” The term refers to a situation in which a rising power risks clashing with an established dominant power.

“The world has reached a new crossroads. Can China and the United States overcome the so-called Thucydides Trap and create a new paradigm for major-power relations,” Xi Jinping said. He also emphasized the importance of cooperation between the two countries in addressing global challenges and maintaining world stability.

According to him, relations between China and the United States should not continue to be viewed through the lens of hostility. He said both countries should become partners in dealing with global economic slowdown, technological transformation, and regional conflicts.

Meanwhile, Donald Trump also delivered a similar message regarding bilateral relations. Trump said direct communication between himself and Xi Jinping had helped resolve various issues quickly over the years.

“We have a fantastic relationship. When there are difficulties, we work them out very quickly,” Trump said. The meeting reflected both countries’ efforts to keep communication channels open and prevent rivalry from escalating into confrontation that could shake global stability.