Washington, March 16 (NationPress) US President Donald Trump might postpone his upcoming trip to China due to the ongoing conflict with Iran, according to statements from the White House on Monday. Officials have emphasized, however, that the meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping is still anticipated.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt mentioned that the visit is significant for both leaders but acknowledged that the schedule may shift depending on how the situation evolves. "Yes, the President is eager to meet with President Xi in China. This is a trip he has been looking forward to, and President Xi is also excited to host President Trump," Leavitt informed reporters outside the White House.

She noted, "There is a chance the trip could be postponed," adding that the administration will keep the public informed as new dates are established.

"I don't believe the meeting is at risk, but it is quite possible that it could be delayed," she further explained during her remarks on Fox News.

Trump's scheduled visit to China was set for March 31 through April 2, where he was expected to meet President Xi in Beijing. This visit would be Trump's first to China since 2017.

The White House indicated that the conflict with Iran has become the US President's top priority.

"No, I just addressed that. It’s a conversation between leaders at this moment. The President is looking forward to visiting China. The dates might change," Leavitt added.

"As Commander-in-Chief, ensuring the success of Operation Epic Fury is his number one priority right now. We will keep you updated on the dates as soon as we can," she specified.

Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One on Sunday night, Trump noted that discussions with global powers, including China, are ongoing as Washington seeks assistance to secure shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz amidst the current conflict.

"China is a fascinating case study. They receive most of their oil through the strait, about 90 percent," the US President remarked.

"Therefore, I've asked, 'Would you like to collaborate?' We’ll see how that unfolds. Maybe they will, maybe they won’t."

He also stated, "In my view, they should join in."

Additionally, President Trump revealed that the US has reached out to several nations regarding assistance in policing the vital waterway, through which a significant portion of global oil shipments pass.

"We are discussing with other countries about collaborating on the policing of the strait," Trump mentioned, adding that Washington has communicated with around seven nations on this matter.

"We've received some positive responses, but a few prefer not to get involved," he continued.

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, who is currently leading trade talks with Chinese Vice-Premier He Lifeng in Paris, indicated that any changes to the President's schedule would likely reflect operational priorities rather than diplomatic tensions.

"If the meetings get postponed, it won’t be because the President insisted that China police the Strait of Hormuz," Bessent clarified in an interview with CNBC.

"If the meeting needs to be rescheduled for any reason, it would likely be due to logistical issues," he added, suggesting that such a decision could reflect Trump's inclination to remain in the White House or within the US during the ongoing conflict.

The White House reiterated that President Trump is closely monitoring the military campaign. "Certainly, the President’s primary responsibility at this moment as Commander-in-Chief is to ensure the ongoing success of Operation Epic Fury, as he is doing around the clock here at the White House," Leavitt stated.

Trump and Xi last met in South Korea in October of last year.