Trump is visiting China from May 13 to May 15 at the invitation of his Chinese counterpart, Xi Jinping, in a closely watched diplomatic engagement amid heightened global geopolitical tensions.

A grand welcome ceremony was organised at the airport, where around 300 Chinese children dressed in blue-and-white uniforms waved American and Chinese flags as Trump descended the steps of Air Force One, according to reports by CNN.

The American leader was received by Chinese Vice President Han Zheng.

According to the report, Han and Trump walked together along the red carpet as the children enthusiastically chanted in Mandarin: “Welcome, welcome, enthusiastically welcome.”

This marks Trump’s second official visit to China since his first trip in November 2017.

Sharing details about the visit, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said the two heads of state would hold in-depth discussions on major issues concerning China-U.S. relations as well as global peace and development.

“China stands ready to work with the U.S. to expand cooperation and manage differences in the spirit of equality, respect and mutual benefit, and provide more stability and certainty for a transforming and volatile world,” Guo said.

Trump’s visit comes at a crucial time as the United States remains engaged in escalating tensions with Iran, further intensifying instability in the Middle East.