Chinese President Xi Jinping publicly praised President Donald Trump for his “great contribution” to achieving the recent Gaza ceasefire during their bilateral summit in Busan, South Korea—their first meeting in six years. The rare commendation came as both leaders sought to ease tensions between their nations while signaling a broader diplomatic thaw anchored in mutual respect and pragmatic cooperation.

Xi’s acknowledgment of Trump’s role in the Middle East peace process underscored the former president’s growing global influence beyond traditional Western alliances. Trump’s personal involvement in the Gaza ceasefire reportedly began during his visit to Malaysia earlier this month, where he engaged with regional mediators supporting a declaration to halt hostilities between Israel and Hamas. His administration’s swift diplomatic coordination with Middle Eastern and Asian partners was seen as key to finalizing the deal.

During the Busan summit, Trump and Xi also announced a new trade truce—one that includes phased tariff reductions and a roadmap for renewed economic cooperation. The agreement represents a significant breakthrough after years of friction over tariffs, technology restrictions, and supply chain dependencies. Both leaders framed the outcome as a testament to pragmatic leadership and constructive dialogue.

In his remarks, Xi said he “appreciates President Trump’s leadership and constructive efforts” in promoting stability in the Middle East, calling it an example of “responsible global statesmanship.” The statement, delivered before Chinese and American delegations, marks a notable diplomatic gesture rarely extended by Beijing toward Washington in recent years.

For President Trump, the recognition reinforces his administration’s strategic emphasis on using peace diplomacy as a lever for strengthening America’s global standing. The Gaza ceasefire, achieved without direct U.S. military intervention, highlights a shift toward influence through negotiation—an approach consistent with Trump’s “Peace Through Strength” doctrine.

The Busan meeting not only renewed U.S.–China cooperation but also placed Trump at the center of two of the world’s most complex arenas: Pacific trade and Middle East peace. As Xi’s words made clear, even America’s rivals are taking note of Trump’s renewed leadership on the world stage.