U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping will meet in Washington, D.C., on Sept. 24, 2024 [1].

The summit represents a critical attempt to manage the strategic competition between the world's two largest economies. By addressing the intersection of emerging technology and national security, the leaders aim to prevent escalation while defining the rules of engagement for the next decade of global power dynamics.

Artificial intelligence policy and supply-chain issues are central to the upcoming discussions. The leaders will also address trade, Taiwan, and global security [2]. These four primary agenda items reflect the breadth of the friction between the two nations [2].

Analysts suggest that the technical infrastructure supporting AI will be a focal point of the negotiations. "AI supply‑chain security will be a top priority on the agenda of the Trump‑Xi summit," Dan Ives said [1].

This meeting follows previous diplomatic efforts to stabilize the relationship. White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said, "We made progress on trade, technology, and security issues during our meeting in Busan, and we look forward to continuing that momentum in Washington" [2].

The visit comes as both nations seek to secure their dominance in the AI sector. The U.S. has focused on restricting the export of high-end semiconductors, while China continues to invest heavily in domestic computing capabilities. The outcome of the Sept. 24 meeting could determine whether the two countries move toward a managed coexistence or further decoupling in the tech sector [1].

“AI supply‑chain security will be a top priority on the agenda of the Trump‑Xi summit.”

This summit signals a shift toward treating artificial intelligence not just as a commercial sector, but as a primary pillar of national security. By bundling AI supply chains with traditional geopolitical flashpoints like Taiwan and trade tariffs, the U.S. and China are acknowledging that technological supremacy is now inextricably linked to global stability and diplomatic leverage.