Washington, Sept. 24 -- US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping observed a United States Marine Corps Silent Drill Platoon review at the South Lawn of the White House on Thursday (local time) alongside First Ladies Melania Trump and Peng Liyuan.

Designed as a key element of the official welcome, the military showcase set a formal tone for President Xi's high-profile state visit to the US.

Prior to this, Trump and the First Lady received the Chinese President and his wife at the White House, ahead of key bilateral talks.

Addressing the Chinese delegation at the White House, Trump praised the "truly great friendship" built between the two leaders while signalling a heavy focus on trade, technology, and advanced computi...