**Xi Jinping Declines Trump Inauguration Invitation While Chinese Officials May Attend**

Despite extending an invitation for the upcoming presidential inauguration, Chinese President Xi Jinping is likely to be absent come January. Two sources intimate with the planning confirmed this, noting that China's ambassador to the U.S. alongside other officials from Beijing may represent China at the event. This unusual invitation, initially highlighted by CBS News, seems to challenge the norm as foreign leaders have not previously attended a U.S. presidential inauguration.

Trump’s administration appears keen to foster relationships with both allies and adversaries, as noted by his spokesperson, Karoline Leavitt. While the former president has lauded Xi's leadership qualities, he has simultaneously expressed strong criticism of China's policies, notably planning to raise tariffs on imports from the nation once he assumes office. The cabinet selections Trump has made, which include figures critical of China, point toward an ongoing complex relationship.

U.S. intelligence has recently implicated China in a significant cyber breach affecting several major telecommunications corporations in the country. Trump's commitment to addressing such threats is evident as he continues to meet with various global leaders, from Canada to Argentina. While internationally attending presidential swearing-ins is typically reserved for ambassadors, Leavitt has hinted that additional invitations have been dispatched to other foreign leaders, although details remain undisclosed.

In a historical context, the absence of a foreign leader at U.S. presidential inaugurations dates back to 1874, establishing this event as a notable divergence in customary diplomatic relations.

The BBC has reached out to both Chinese officials and the Trump transition team for further clarifications.