Trump and Xi meet as China tightens drug controls. The two leaders will discuss regional tensions including Iran and sanctions evasion as they meet at the White House. The meeting comes amid heightened concerns over fentanyl-related crimes and the flow of precursor chemicals into the U.S.
China's guidelines for fentanyl-related crimes are set ahead of the Trump-Xi summit. The guidelines aim to clarify legal standards for convictions and sentencing, dividing substances into medicinal and non-pharmaceutical categories. China has added two chemicals to its export control list for drug precursor chemicals, requiring permits for exports to the U.S., Mexico, and Canada.
The meeting between Trump and Xi is expected to focus on diplomatic and economic issues, including the release of U.S. citizens detained in China. The U.S. has designated two Americans as 'wrongfully detained,' with their release a top priority. China has denied wrongdoing, stating that the detainees are suspected of engaging in activities that endanger national security.
China's foreign ministry spokesperson denied any wrongful detention, stating that the country upholds the rule of law. The U.S. has accused China of using decoupling techniques to mask nuclear tests, a claim China denies. The detainees' families remain concerned over their conditions, with the U.S. pressuring Beijing for their release.