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Xi Jinping Health Concerns: Chinese officials reportedly asked US counterparts for more downtime for Xi and declined a planned working lunch between Xi and Trump.
Xi Jinping speaks at White House. (Image: AFP)
Xi Jinping Health Concerns: China President Xi Jinping’s health came under fresh scrutiny after a Wall Street Journal report said Chinese officials made unusual arrangements for the 73-year-old leader to get additional rest during his recent Washington summit with US President Donald Trump. The report, which cites people in the know, said Beijing’s requests included a private room inside the White House West Wing where Xi could rest between engagements. His wife, Peng Liyuan, was reportedly the only person from the Chinese side allowed to accompany him there.
The arrangements prompted questions about whether Xi Jinping is facing physical limitations, although there is no public evidence establishing any specific illness or serious medical condition. The WSJ report itself notes that some changes to his schedule could have been explained by the roughly 14-hour flight from Beijing and the effects of jet lag.
Why Was Xi Jinping Given Extra Rest?
Wall Street Journal reported that Chinese officials asked US counterparts for more downtime for Xi Jinping and declined a planned working lunch between Xi Jinping and Trump on September 24, the only full day of the Washington summit.
Xi Jinping’s team also reportedly arranged no engagements for him on the evening he arrived in Washington. On September 25, his visit to the National Archives lasted only around 10 minutes, significantly shorter than what US officials had planned. The WSJ said the schedule appeared to be organised around how long Xi Jinping could stand or walk and when he would need breaks.
Xi Jinping’s Movements Draw Attention
The report also pointed to Xi Jinping’s movements during the visit. As he descended the stairs from his aircraft at Joint Base Andrews, Xi Jinping was seen holding the hand of Peng while also gripping the railing. Two days later, the couple again held hands while climbing the steps of the National Archives alongside Trump and First Lady Melania Trump.
Such gestures are not necessarily evidence of a health problem. Xi has previously been seen holding Peng’s hand during official events. The WSJ nevertheless noted that Chinese state television edited out some of the moments from its prime-time coverage.
Xi Jinping’s Health Questions Emerged Before Washington Visit
The latest report comes weeks after Xi Jinping skipped a gala dinner during the BRICS summit in New Delhi. The Wall Street Journal reported that Xi Jinping was unwell and withdrew from the dinner at the last minute, with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi attending in his place.
His absence fuelled speculation on social media about his health, including unverified claims of a serious medical episode. There has, however, been no confirmed public evidence of a stroke or other major illness.
Questions about Xi Jinping’s physical condition have surfaced periodically before. Similar speculation emerged after his 2019 European tour, when footage appeared to show him walking with a slight limp and using a chair for support.
Quick Answers
Ask News18Chinese officials requested a private room inside the White House West Wing where Xi Jinping could rest between engagements, with his wife Peng Liyuan being the only person allowed to accompany him there. They also declined a planned working lunch and arranged extra downtime, while shortening his visit to the National Archives.
Ask News18Delhi, India, India
October 03, 2026, 09:25 IST
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