US President Donald Trump hinted at a "not-too-distant" visit to China after an invitation from Xi Jinping, signalling possible diplomacy amid trade tensions, and geopolitical strains.

Beijing also seems willing to engage in diplomatic channels. China's US embassy confirmed last week that it is inviting foreign dignitaries — some of them American — to a September 3 ceremony in Beijing commemorating the 80th anniversary of the conclusion of World War II.

The leader has scaled back travel plans and skipped some key summits, but continues active diplomacy—as a host.

As Chinese President Xi Jinping vowed to deepen ties with the European Union, the bloc's top official raised concerns over a growing trade imbalance, underscoring the strains beneath the diplomatic niceties. Chinese and EU leaders held a meeting Thursday as the 25th EU-China summit got underway.

Chinese President Xi Jinping's absence from public view, appearing only twice in videos in over a month, amid a military purge and economic challenges, has fuelled speculation of a power shift in the Chinese Communist Party.