U.S. President Donald Trump delivered a reciprocal toast to Chinese President Xi Jinping during a state banquet in Beijing on May 14, 2026 [1].
The meeting occurs amid significant regional tensions and trade disputes, making the diplomatic gesture a critical signal of the current state of U.S.-China relations.
The banquet took place on the second day [2] of President Trump's visit to China. The event was designed to celebrate the friendship between the two nations and mark the occasion of the high-stakes summit between the two leaders.
During the ceremony, Trump addressed the assembly and expressed his appreciation for the reception. "I am grateful for the magnificent welcome and the friendship between our peoples," Trump said.
President Xi Jinping responded to the gesture by emphasizing the need for stability. "We look forward to deepening cooperation and ensuring peace in the region," Xi said.
Attention turned to the beverages served during the toast after video footage showed Trump sipping a bubbly liquid. While some observers suggested the drink was champagne, White House officials clarified the nature of the beverage to maintain the president's public image regarding sobriety.
"The liquid he sipped was a non‑alcoholic sparkling beverage, so his personal pledge to abstain from alcohol remains intact," a senior White House aide said.
“"I am grateful for the magnificent welcome and the friendship between our peoples,"”
The state banquet serves as a diplomatic facade of cooperation while the two superpowers navigate volatile disputes over Taiwan and trade. The White House's quick clarification regarding the non-alcoholic nature of the toast reflects a commitment to maintaining the president's personal brand of abstinence, ensuring that a social gesture does not contradict his public health pledges.
