The conversation came as stalled tariff negotiations between the two countries roiled global trade.
Trump had declared one day earlier that it was difficult to reach a deal with Xi.
Trade negotiations between the world’s two largest economies stalled shortly after a May 12 agreement to reduce their tariff rates while talks played out. Behind the gridlock has been the continued competition for an economic edge.
The US accuses China of not exporting critical minerals, and the Chinese government objects to America restricting its sale of advanced chips and its access to student visas for college and graduate students.
Trump has lowered his 145 percent tariffs on Chinese goods to 30 percent for 90 days to allow for talks. China also reduced its taxes on US goods from 125 percent to 10 percent. (Agencies)