Following Donald Trump’s triumph in the 2024 US Presidential elections, speculation arose regarding Chinese President Xi Jinping’s presence at his inauguration on January 20. As the date draws near, reports now indicate that Xi will not be present but will instead dispatch a senior envoy.
According to a *Financial Times* article, referencing individuals acquainted with the issue, Beijing has notified Trump’s transition team that a high-ranking official will stand in for Xi at the event. The envoy is also anticipated to have discussions with Trump’s team.
Who Could Represent Xi at Trump’s Inauguration?
The article suggests that Xi may assign Han Zheng, China’s vice-president, who frequently undertakes ceremonial responsibilities on Xi’s behalf. Another possible candidate is Wang Yi, China’s foreign minister, although his rank is inferior.
Sources pointed out that Trump’s advisers were promoting Cai Qi, a member of the Politburo Standing Committee and a significant player in Chinese politics, to participate. Cai possesses more clout than Han or Wang, rendering him a favored option to represent Xi.
Concerns About Trump’s Reaction
Another source described worries within Trump’s transition team that the former president could be unhappy if Xi sends an envoy viewed as lesser in rank. Wang Yi, as a career diplomat, may not be perceived as a sufficiently strong delegate, especially considering Trump’s personal outreach to Xi.
Dennis Wilder, a former senior White House advisor on China, informed Financial Times, “By dispatching a special envoy of substantial stature to meet with Trump and his cabinet, Xi can signal his desire to start off positively with the Trump administration without risking a return home empty-handed or publicly humiliated. ”
An Unprecedented Move by China
Should a high-ranking Chinese official or leader be present at Trump’s inauguration, it would represent an unprecedented action. Traditionally, China has sent its ambassador to the United States to such events.
Trump’s invitation to Xi last month was interpreted as a sign of his intention to resume high-level interactions with China, mirroring the approach he adopted during his initial term as president.
China’s Efforts to Ease Tensions with the US
China seems to be seeking avenues to lower tensions with the US, especially since Trump has appointed several known China hawks to key roles in his administration. Among these are Senator Marco Rubio as Secretary of State, National Security Adviser Mike Waltz, and his deputy Alex Wong—individuals recognized for their hardline perspective on China.
Beijing is also gearing up for potential trade disputes. Trump has threatened to impose further tariffs of 10% on Chinese products unless China takes action to mitigate the trafficking of fentanyl, a highly addictive drug. On the campaign trail, Trump even proposed the concept of imposing tariffs surpassing 60%.
China’s potential attendance at Trump’s inauguration, via a special envoy, would be a strategic move intended to ease tensions and indicate its willingness to work with the new administration.
