Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent Notifications can be managed in browser preferences. All News Sport Culture Lifestyle Trump addresses ‘my friend’ Xi at lavish state banquet | IN FULL President Donald Trump lauded the "special relationship" between the United States and China after holding "extremely positive and productive talks" with Chinese President Xi Jinping . Speaking at a lavish banquet in the Great Hall of the People, Trump expressed gratitude to President Xi for a "magnificent welcome." Trump extended an invitation to President Xi Jinping and his wife, Madam Peng, for a state visit to the White House on September 24. He emphasized the historical significance of the Sino-American relationship, noting its origins dating back to the American Revolution. Trump characterized the connection between the two nations as one of the most consequential in world history, beneficial for both the U.S. and China .…