Who is Han Zheng? The representative of China at Trump's inauguration

Chinese Vice President Han Zheng will represent President Xi Jinping at Donald Trump's presidential inauguration on January 20. The Chinese Foreign Ministry announced the decision after Trump invited foreign leaders to the ceremony.

Han's attendance signals China's aim for a stable relationship with the US despite tensions on issues like trade. This will be Trump's second, non-consecutive term as president.

Neil Thomas, a fellow in Chinese politics at the Asia Society Policy Institute, said Xi's decision to send Han indicates his desire to "get Trump into deal-making mode" without wanting to play a secondary role in the Trump administration's actions on January 20.

Han Zheng: China's Diplomatic Strategist?

Han is a prominent figure in Chinese politics. He became vice president in March 2023 and has represented China at other international events, like the 2023 Indonesian presidential inauguration.

Born in Shanghai in 1954, Han worked on a farm and in factories during the Cultural Revolution. He later held positions in Shanghai's chemical and rubber industries before entering government. He became Shanghai's mayor and then party secretary. Xi briefly held the same position, providing Han with direct access to him.

In 2017, Han joined the Politburo Standing Committee. He then became vice president, a role elevated by Xi. Han met with U.S. Vice President-elect J.D. Vance and business leaders, including Elon Musk.

Han has handled unrest in Hong Kong and attended international events. His low-key approach and relationship with Xi make him suitable for navigating U.S.-China relations during Trump's second term.??

Meanwhile the US is braching for a historic inauguration of Donald Trump, as he is the first US president elected to non-consecutive terms since Grover Cleveland. The ceremony will be held indoors in the Capitol Rotunda due to cold weather. Chief Justice John Roberts will administer the oath.

Trump's inauguration event will be attended by many noted personalities including tech leaders as Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, and Mark Zuckerberg, along with cabinet nominees. Outgoing President Joe Biden and former presidents Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, and Barack Obama will also be present. Several foreign leaders, including Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Han Zheng, are also invited.