But while billionaire Trump has repeatedly dismissed fears that AI could pose a threat to humanity, Xi took a more measured tone on the issue.
He said: “We have both the capability and responsibility to develop and manage AI for good and ensure that the development of AI is always under human control.”
Xi added that the two countries had a “historic responsibility of advancing human development and progress” and should “strengthen communication”.
Few breakthroughs are expected during Xi’s state visit as the world’s two biggest economies seek to manage their rivalry.
Trump kicked things off by personally greeting Xi at the airport on Wednesday – the first time in more than six decades that a US President welcomed a foreign head of state in person at Joint Base Andrews near Washington.
A formal welcome and a handshake on the White House South Lawn launched Thursday’s events, which include a military flyover, talks in the Oval Office, and a state dinner.
Trump had earlier said that the 73-year-old Xi looked “strong, vibrant, and fit”, following recent rumours about the Chinese leader’s health.
But the warm welcome masks deep tensions over thorny topics including the trade war between the world’s top two economies, and Beijing’s diplomatic and economic support for Iran.
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent on Wednesday announced a two-month extension of a trade truce that was due to expire in November.
Both sides are keen to avoid plunging back into the trade war sparked by Trump’s sweeping global tariffs last year.
Trump confirmed on Wednesday that he would discuss his stalled Iran war with Xi, despite earlier playing down reports that Beijing was giving Tehran intelligence.
Taiwan will also be on the table, with Trump’s words likely to be watched for any sign of diminishing US support for the self-governing island that Beijing claims as its territory.
Xi’s visit will wrap up on Friday morning when the two presidential couples have tea at the White House and then visit the National Archives, home to the US Declaration of Independence.
– AFP