Trump Calls Xi 'Great Leader' During Beijing Summit

A summit between Chinese President Xi Jinping and his U.S. counterpart Donald Trump stretched for more than two hours inside the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. During the encounter, Trump described Xi as a "great leader." "You are a great leader. People don't like me to say that... but I say it anyway, because it's the truth," Trump stated during the meeting.

Economic issues and bilateral relations dominated the discussions between the two leaders. Following the talks, Trump is scheduled to visit the Temple of Heaven, a religious complex dating back to the 15th century that symbolizes the connection between heaven and earth. The two leaders are also set to share an official dinner.

The American president arrived in China on an official visit Wednesday, May 13, with the trip expected to continue through Thursday.