By WorldSpokesperson International Desk
A short video showing US military personnel adjusting a red carpet before Chinese President Xi Jinping’s arrival at Joint Base Andrews has gone viral on social media.
The 12-second clip shows military personnel using their hands to straighten and clean the carpet. The scene took place shortly before Xi arrived at the US military base.
Reports said the red carpet stretched about 30 metres, or 98 feet.
Chinese Officials Watch Final Preparations
Chinese officials were also seen near the aircraft as the final preparations were made for Xi’s arrival.
The video quickly drew attention on social media. Some users described the scene as part of an unusually elaborate welcome for the Chinese president.
Xi Receives Formal US Welcome
Xi arrived in the United States for a three-day visit at the invitation of US President Donald Trump.
Trump and First Lady Melania Trump welcomed Xi and his wife, Peng Liyuan, at Joint Base Andrews.
The welcome ceremony included a 21-gun salute. The US and Chinese national anthems were also played.
Military Aircraft Take Part in Flypast
US military aircraft also took part in the welcome ceremony.
Reports said two B-1 bombers joined six F-16 fighter jets and six F-22 fighter jets in the flypast.
Xi’s visit comes as Washington and Beijing seek discussions on trade, artificial intelligence and other major issues in US-China relations.
The red carpet video has added a lighter and highly visible moment to the formal diplomatic welcome.
