Trump to meet with China's Xi at Beijing summit this week, but war in Iran could strain talks

As President Donald Trump prepares to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping this week, the war in Iran could cause considerable tension when the two presidents discuss trade and economic issues. 

Trump has spoken positively of Xi in the past and said last month that he expected Xi to give him "a big, fat hug" when they meet. However, the war in Iran is complicating the broader U.S.-China relationship. 

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said Xi and Trump are expected to discuss the war and urged China to help the U.S. and its allies in the "international operation" to open the Strait of Hormuz, Reuters reported. 

Beijing has worked quietly to try to convince Iran to hold peace talks, while at the same time maintaining good relations with Iran, which sends 80% of its oil to China. As the war drags on, China's energy security is becoming increasingly strained. Beijing refiners have cut lucrative exports of gasoline and jet fuel to ensure enough for China's domestic uses. 

Trump and Xi are also expected to discuss oil sanctions on Iran. In April, the U.S. Treasury imposed sanctions on Chinese refiners for buying Iranian oil, and it has warned others. 

Trump arrives in Beijing on Wednesday for a two-day summit.