For Donald Trump’s inauguration, China is sending Vice President Han Zheng. This comes after the incoming US president invited Xi Jinping to attend the January 20 event — a break from tradition

Chinese leader Xi Jinping may not have personally accepted US President-elect Donald Trump’s invitation to his inauguration, but Beijing has taken the rare step of dispatching a top official to join the swearing-in ceremony in Washington.

Chinese President Xi Jinping has designated Vice President Han Zheng to represent China at Donald Trump’s inauguration on January 20. This decision signals China’s desire for stable relations with the US while avoiding the spotlight at Trump’s swearing-in ceremony.