Chinese President Xi Jinping will likely not attend the inauguration of US President-elect Donald Trump, CBS News reports.
The Chinese ambassador to the United States and his wife are expected to attend the event, as is customary.
In addition, according to CBS sources, other officials from Beijing could join them.
“Inauguration officials have designated personnel to handle diplomatic protocol at the ceremonies,” CBS sources added.
The invitation to the inauguration for the Chinese president came outside official diplomatic channels.
The invitation came at an already tense time between the two countries.
Several Western diplomats expressed surprise at Trump’s decision to invite Jinping, given the differing views on China among members of Trump’s team.
According to officials, the move could become a source of tension both within the administration and in geopolitical relations.
