Chinese President Xi Jinping stated on 15/5 that he chose Zhongnanhai, the complex where China's top leaders work and reside, for a second meeting with US President Donald Trump. This decision was made to "reciprocate the warm reception he extended to me at Mar-a-Lago in 2017", referring to their meeting in Florida during Trump's first term.

During his visit to Zhongnanhai, Trump and Xi strolled through the gardens and took photos. The US President emphasized his high regard for President Xi. "We have become good friends, knowing each other for 11-12 years, that's a long time", Trump said.

In a video released by President Trump's media team, the US leader asked his interpreter to inquire of the Chinese President, "When presidents and prime ministers of other countries visit, have you ever invited anyone to this place?".

Xi shook his head, seemingly indicating no; however, the video did not clearly capture the interpreter's response.

During the exchange accessible to the press, Xi and Trump were seated on two large, classic wooden chairs. Behind them were carved wooden screens depicting pine trees and orchids. These images symbolize hospitality and respect for guests in traditional Chinese culture.

Chinese President Xi Jinping discussed the Zhongnanhai complex with US President Donald Trump. *Photo: AFP*

Xi informed the US President that Zhongnanhai is where China's party and government leaders work and reside, including himself.

"After the People's Republic of China was founded in 1949, we have been here, including past leaders Mao Zedong, Zhou Enlai, Deng Xiaoping, Jiang Zemin, and Hu Jintao", he explained.

He also highlighted the complex's ancient historical landmarks, including a tree over 400 years old. He noted that the US President showed interest in learning about the area and China's rose varieties.

"I have agreed to send the seeds of these roses to the President", Xi said.

This was President Trump's first visit to Zhongnanhai, often likened to China's "White House" and the country's center of power.

Chinese President Xi Jinping and US President Donald Trump took a friendly photo at Zhongnanhai. *Photo: AFP*

After 1949, as the Forbidden City was seen as a symbol of feudal autocracy, the Communist Party of China decided to choose Zhongnanhai as its center of power.

The complex is located west of the Forbidden City, housing the headquarters of the Central Committee of the Party and the Office of the Chinese Government. This complex spans about 100 hectares, with nearly 50 hectares being water, interspersed with numerous pavilions, gardens, and office buildings.

Surrounded by centuries-old red walls, it is one of China's most discreet locations, with numerous surveillance cameras and strict security patrols.

Thanh Danh (According to CNN, Daily Beast, BBC)