US President Donald Trump hinted at a "not-too-distant" visit to China after an invitation from Xi Jinping, signalling possible diplomacy amid trade tensions, and geopolitical strains.

At a tense summit in Beijing, Chinese President Xi Jinping urged EU leaders to handle differences as trade tensions peak. EU officials, including Ursula von der Leyen, seek a balanced approach amid a record trade deficit and recent disputes over China’s overcapacity and global market influence.

Chinese President Xi Jinping criticised Brussels's recent trade actions against Beijing at a tense summit dominated by concerns on trade and the Ukraine war.

Beijing also seems willing to engage in diplomatic channels. China's US embassy confirmed last week that it is inviting foreign dignitaries — some of them American — to a September 3 ceremony in Beijing commemorating the 80th anniversary of the conclusion of World War II.

Von der Leyen and Costa attend a brief visit to a summit in Beijing to celebrate 50 years of diplomatic relations. Gradually, the high expectations for the summit between China and the European Union faded.

The leader has scaled back travel plans and skipped some key summits, but continues active diplomacy—as a host.

Chinese President Xi Jinping's absence from public view, appearing only twice in videos in over a month, amid a military purge and economic challenges, has fuelled speculation of a power shift in the Chinese Communist Party.