India, Sept. 21 -- When Chinese President, Xi Jinping lands at Joint Base Andrews on September 23, US President, Donald Trump is expected to personally receive him on the tarmac-a rare honour normally not extended to visiting heads of State. The gesture is particularly striking because when Trump arrived in Beijing in May, Xi did not meet him at the airport; the reception was led by Chinese Vice-President Han Zheng, with Xi giving Trump the formal welcome the following day. Trump's decision to meet Xi personally at the airfield, therefore, carries significance beyond protocol.

The symbolism is unmistakable. The two countries remain strategic competitors, yet their leaders are investing heavily in personal diplomacy to prevent that rivalr...