Chinese President Xi Jinping has chosen Vice President Han Zheng to represent China at the inauguration of US President-elect Donald Trump on January 20. This decision, announced by the Chinese foreign ministry, comes after Trump extended a break from tradition by inviting foreign leaders, including Xi, to his swearing-in ceremony. While Xi will not attend, Han’s presence highlights China’s desire to maintain a stable and cooperative relationship with the United States amidst tensions over trade and other key issues.
As Trump prepares to return to the White House for a non-consecutive second term, China’s choice of Han Zheng is seen as both a diplomatic gesture and a calculated move in the ongoing rivalry between the two nations.
Neil Thomas, a fellow in Chinese politics at the Asia Society Policy Institute, told the BBC that Xi’s decision to send Han to the US indicates his desire to “get Trump into deal-making mode” without wanting to play a secondary role in the Trump administration’s actions on January 20.
Who is Han Zheng?
Vice President of China , serving as the special representative of President Xi Jinping.- A former member of the Politburo Standing Committee, Han has been a prominent figure in Chinese politics and was appointed vice president in March 2023.
- Han has represented China at various high-level events, including the 2023 Indonesian Presidential inauguration and other key international functions.
- His predecessor, Wang Qishan, also represented Xi at significant events, such as the inaugurations of foreign leaders, emphasising the importance of this role in China’s diplomatic strategy.
- Known for his close ties to Xi Jinping, Han plays a crucial role in shaping China’s domestic and foreign policies, particularly in areas of economic development and international relations.
Trump’s Inauguration
Trump’s inauguration will be a historic moment, marking the first time a US president has been elected to non-consecutive terms since Grover Cleveland. Although Xi Jinping will not attend, Han Zheng’s role is pivotal as China seeks to balance its desire for dialogue with the US.
Donald Trump’s inauguration will be held indoors due to a cold forecast.
The event will be held in the Capitol Rotunda, rather than the usual outdoor platform, with Trump taking the oath administered by Chief Justice John Roberts.
Trump has invited tech moguls Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, and Mark Zuckerberg, alongside more traditional guests like cabinet nominees. Outgoing President Joe Biden and former presidents Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, and Barack Obama will attend, with some foreign leaders invited, including Italian PM Giorgia Meloni and Chinese Vice President Han Zheng, representing Xi Jinping.
