The world's two biggest economies should steer away from conflict and confrontation, President Xi Jinping said Thursday after arriving at the White House for a high-stakes summit with US President Donald Trump.

Addressing a welcome ceremony at the White House, Xi said he and Trump should encourage government departments, such as those in charge of foreign affairs, economic matters, financial cooperation, law enforcement, and people-to-people exchanges, to strengthen contact.

"China and the United States must hold the line on maintaining no conflict and no confrontation between us," Xi said. "Our two militaries should maintain regular dialog and improve mechanisms for crisis communication and prevention."

On artificial intelligence, Xi added that Washington and Beijing have a responsibility to "develop and manage AI for good".

"We have both the capability and responsibility to develop and manage AI for good and ensure that the development of AI is always under human control," he said at the White House.

The rapidly developing technology is among the items on the agenda for Xi's meeting with Trump.

Trump confirmed that he would discuss AI and other "pressing issues" in talks with Xi at the White House.

"During this visit, we will also discuss pressing issues concerning security, technology, and super intelligence -- SI. The decisions we make in these areas today can promote peace and prosperity for decades and decades to come," Trump said.

The US leader also hailed his "great friendship" with Xi as he gave the president and first lady Peng Liyuan a lavish welcome to the White House.

"President Xi and I have forged a friendship -- a truly great friendship, actually -- built on mutual respect and the vital interests of our people," Trump said.

Xi announced that China will welcome 100,000 young Americans for study and exchange programs over the next five years.

He also confirmed a pair of pandas will make home at Zoo Atlanta in a few days. (AFP/Xinhua)




Edited by Azam Khan