• President Trump and Xi Jinping met in Beijing on May 14, 2026, where Trump made extensive opening remarks praising Xi and the relationship between the two countries¹²
• The verified claims database confirms that during the opening remarks, Trump declared "it's an honor to be your friend" and referred to the U.S.-China presidential relationship as "an honor"²
• Multiple news sources including The Daily Beast report Trump said the relationship was "an honor" during his opening remarks to Xi at the Great Hall of the People¹
• While the exact phrasing "it is an honor to be with Xi Jinping" appears to be a slight paraphrase, the sentiment and substance—that Trump expressed being honored to be in Xi Jinping's presence and called their relationship an honor—is directly confirmed by verified sources²¹

Overall validity: 90%

1. Trump Grovels to 'Great' Chinese Leader in First Key Meeting in ...
2. President Trump stared down Xi Jinping