Trump leaves China after much pomp and pageantry, but little to show for it

As US President Donald Trump

landed back in Washington on Friday after his two-day summit in Beijing with Chinese President Xi Jinping

, a quick US assessment on one of the most consequential diplomatic visits of Trump’s presidency was: impressive optics, trademark flawless Chinese hosting, but disappointing concrete achievements, according to analysts, industry trade groups and former US officials.

But years of spiralling US-China tension do not disappear in 48 hours, even if the US president is not distracted by a war that contributed to sub-par US preparation, prompting analysts to hedge, adding that they would suspend full judgment until more details emerge in the coming days and weeks.

Among the unseens and unknowns included word on the frequently teased Board of Trade, Board of Investment and mega Chinese sales of soy and other US farm products; Chinese confirmation of a 200-aircraft Boeing purchase deal, itself below expectations; any extension of the trade truce; and any progress on a slew of business and market opening deals.

“These matters appear to still be in the works, so we may see further announcements in the coming days,” added Cutler, now senior vice-president of the Asia Society Policy Institute.