The Financial Times reports that China is considering sending a high-level envoy to attend Trump’s inauguration, which is sparking significant attention.
According to various sources, Beijing communicated with Trump’s transition team, suggesting that a top official, rather than President Xi Jinping himself, would attend. Possible candidates include Vice-President Han Zheng or Foreign Minister Wang Yi, though some Trump advisers reportedly prefer Cai Qi, a member of the Politburo Standing Committee with significant influence.
One person familiar with the situation said some Trump advisers wanted Cai Qi, a member of the Politburo Standing Committee, pictured, to attend the inauguration © Bloomberg
China has not made any official comments on these reports, and the speculation has led to diverse interpretations in Western media. Some perceive this as an indication of China’s desperation to engage with the U.S., while others believe it’s an opportunity for the U.S. to foster better relations with China, especially considering the historical nuances of their interactions over the past decade and a half.
Overall, the potential presence of a high-ranking Chinese official at such a significant event highlights the ongoing complexities and opportunities within U.S.-China relations.
