China Send VP to Trump’s Inauguration…So What Now?

China sends Vice President Han Zheng to Trump’s inauguration, reflecting complex US-China relations amid ongoing tensions.

At a Glance

  • Chinese President Xi Jinping will not attend Donald Trump’s inauguration
  • Vice President Han Zheng will represent China at the event
  • The invitation to Xi was unusual, as no Heads of State typically make official visits for inaugurations
  • China expresses readiness to work with the new U.S. government on dialogue and cooperation
  • Experts suggest China’s decision indicates a willingness to cater to Trump’s preferences

China’s Diplomatic Move

Chinese President Xi Jinping has chosen to send Vice President Han Zheng as his representative to Donald Trump’s upcoming inauguration – and the move could easily be seen as a snub. The decision comes amid ongoing tensions between the two global powers, with discussions centered on critical issues such as trade disagreements and regional conflicts.

The decision to send Han Zheng, who retired from the Chinese Communist Party’s top decision-making body in 2022, reflects China’s continued interest in maintaining diplomatic dialogue. China’s Foreign Ministry has expressed a willingness to engage constructively with the new U.S. administration, stating, “We stand ready to work with the new U.S. government to enhance dialogue and communication, properly manage differences, expand mutually beneficial cooperation, jointly pursue a stable, healthy and sustainable China-U.S. relations and find the right way for the two countries to get along with each other,” a Ministry Spokesperson said.

The invitation extended to Xi Jinping was unprecedented, as no Heads of State have previously made official visits to the U.S. for an inauguration. This unusual gesture highlights the significance of US-China relations in the current global landscape. However, Xi’s decision not to attend personally points to the complex dynamics at play between the two nations.

Trump was literally trying to amend U.S.-China relations – despite the U.S. establishment arguing that he is trying to hurt them.

Nonetheless, China has shown some willingness to work with us.

Experts suggest that China’s decision to send Han Zheng is a carefully calculated move.

“China is willing to forego protocol and cater to what Trump wants,” Sun Yun from the Stimson Center said.

Danny Russel from the Asia Society Policy Institute believes it’s a strategic choice to avoid offending Trump while maintaining diplomatic protocol.

“Zero chance that Xi Jinping would allow himself to be potted plant at Donald Trump’s triumphal coronation. At the same time, ensuring that China extends enough courtesy to avoid bruising Trump’s ego,” Russel explained.

While Xi’s absence from the inauguration may be interpreted as a sign of caution, it also reflects the Chinese leader’s preference for safety and his reluctance to appear subordinate in international settings.