Donald Trump’s meeting with Xi Jinping took place against the backdrop of a newly signed Greenland security agreement designed to expand US military access and restrict military activity by non-NATO countries such as China. The timing highlighted growing competition between Washington and Beijing over Arctic security, resources and strategic influence, although no major new agreements were publicly announced during Xi’s visit.

The three-day state visit included formal talks, a White House ceremony, a National Archives tour and a state dinner attended by 134 guests, including leading US technology executives. China has long shown interest in Greenland’s infrastructure, rare-earth deposits and other critical minerals, while US officials have cited Chinese involvement in proposed base and airport projects as evidence of wider ambitions in the region.