For the first time in its modern diplomatic history, the United States breaks its long-standing protocol and sets aside its usual pride to receive its Eastern peer!
The proceedings of the reception at Andrews Air Force Base were not mere formalities, but a public notice marking the end of the unipolar era, as the airport's behind-the-scenes details broadcasted unprecedented realities:
• Trump waits on the tarmac for more than 30 minutes before the arrival of the Chinese aircraft, and remains waiting—sticking to the tarmac—for over a full hour until the Chinese President's convoy departs.
• Total protocol submission: Beijing officials were the ones managing the scene and disembarked first; President Xi did not appear until an "OK" signal was given inward by the Chinese marshal.
• Firmness and composure versus American rushing: President Xi disembarks with confidence and calm, maintaining his composure brilliantly, guides Trump toward the Chinese delegation to introduce them, and speaks through his interpreter—imposing his language—while his wife, Mrs. Peng Liyuan, speaks directly in English with Melania.
• Manifestations of Chinese prestige: Playing the Chinese national anthem first, a 21-gun artillery salvo, the flyover of B-1 bombers alongside F-22 and F-16 fighters lined up on the tarmac, and Trump removing his glove to shake hands with utmost care!
Washington, which imposes sanctions on the world, breaks its reception rules (in an exception that has only occurred for Kennedy's visit to Macmillan in 1962 and Obama's reception of Pope Francis in 2015) to beg for an extension of the trade truce and to secure rare earths...