The stark contrast in tone underscored just how far apart the leaders remain on the war in Iran, trade disputes and Washington’s relationship with Taiwan.

Taiwan, tariffs and the strait of Hormuz are on the meeting’s agenda for Beijing – but will the US president be forced to ask for help in ending his war with Iran?

The summit between US President Donald Trump and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping that begins on Wednesday in Beijing will unfold around an agenda concentrated on five main…