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In this analysis
Chinese President Xi Jinping began a three-day state visit to the United States on Wednesday, a trip that places trade, technology and security disputes at the centre of another high-level meeting between Beijing and Washington.
What happened
China's Foreign Ministry said Xi would visit from September 23 to 25 at the invitation of US President Donald Trump. The ministry said the leaders would exchange views on major issues in China-US relations and wider questions of peace and development.
Context
The visit follows preparatory contacts between senior US and Chinese officials and comes during the United Nations General Assembly high-level week. Trade, artificial intelligence and geopolitical disputes have all featured in the run-up to the talks.
What happens next
The substance of the leaders' meetings, any joint statements and subsequent measures on trade or technology will show whether the visit produces specific agreements or primarily stabilises communication.