Pakistan, Sept. 25 -- United States President Donald Trump hailed his "great friendship" with Xi Jinping on Thursday as he gave the Chinese leader a lavish welcome to the White House for a historic state visit.

"President Xi and I have forged a friendship - a truly great friendship, actually - built on mutual respect and the vital interests of our people," Trump said as he and Xi delivered remarks in the White House.

Trump said he would discuss "pressing issues", including artificial intelligence (AI), in talks with Xi.

"During this visit, we will also discuss pressing issues concerning security, technology, and super intelligence - SI. The decisions we make in these areas today can promote peace and prosperity for decades and decades ...