Private talks a hallmark of rapport between pair

2. Yingtai, Beijing (November 2014)

After the APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting, Obama stays on in Beijing for a state visit. He is invited by Xi to visit the Zhongnanhai leadership compound, where they hold five hours of discussions, including an hour of late-night private talks as they stroll at Yingtai, a picturesque island.

The talks are followed by a brief meeting and dinner, giving rise to expectations that the unusually informal atmosphere will help the leaders tackle major issues at a formal meeting.