BEIJING — Following a day of high-stakes diplomatic talks at the Great Hall of the People, Chinese President Xi Jinping hosted a grand state dinner on Thursday evening in honor of U.S. President Donald Trump. The event, characterized by its opulence and “gold-standard” hospitality, brought together the political and business elite of both superpowers.
The Menu: A Fusion of East and West
According to details released by the White House, the banquet featured a sophisticated blend of traditional Chinese flavors and Western favorites. The multi-course meal included:
-
Appetizers & Mains: Lobster in tomato soup, crispy beef ribs, and the iconic Beijing roast duck.
-
Seafood: Salmon prepared with seasonal vegetables and a mustard sauce.
-
Desserts: A diverse spread featuring pan-fried pork buns, trumpet-shell pastries, and tiramisu, accompanied by fresh fruit and ice cream.
Musk Steals the Spotlight
While the dinner was intended to celebrate bilateral ties, much of the room’s attention shifted toward Tesla CEO Elon Musk. Despite the presence of high-ranking U.S. officials—including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent—Musk was frequently swamped by guests seeking selfies.
In a notable moment of corporate diplomacy, Xiaomi CEO Lei Jun was seen greeting Musk and posing for photographs, highlighting the tech industry’s significant interest in the summit.
