Eric Trump to Accompany President Trump on Upcoming China Trip
US President Donald Trump will be joined by his son, Eric Trump, and daughter-in-law, Lara Trump, on his visit to China scheduled for May 14 and 15. This information was confirmed by Kimberley Benza, spokesperson for the Trump Organization.
Eric Trump, serving as a deputy director at the Trump Organization, oversees the family’s expansive business interests. While Eric and Lara will accompany the President, Benza emphasized that their role will be strictly personal.
“Eric Trump is immensely proud of his father and the achievements of his presidency. He’s participating out of support as a son, not for any business-related endeavors,” Benza clarified. Eric has no plans for business activities in China and will not attend any private meetings during the visit.
Nonetheless, Eric Trump’s involvement raises potential concerns regarding conflicts of interest, especially considering that he and other family members manage the Trump family’s wealth and business dealings. While he is tasked with overseeing investments across various sectors, including real estate and blockchain technology, Lara Trump is known for her role as the host of Fox News’ “My View With Lara Trump” and previously served as co-chair of the Republican National Committee.
This trip comes on the heels of Donald Trump’s previous criticisms of Democratic predecessor Joe Biden, who faced scrutiny for allowing his son, Hunter Biden, to accompany him on a China trip. Trump had accused Hunter of attempting to secure financial support from Chinese sources—allegations the Biden family has denied. In 2019, Trump publicly urged China to investigate these claims.
As for the upcoming visit, White House spokeswoman Anna Kelly noted, “President Trump looks forward to discussing various significant topics with China, including fair trade, economic cooperation, and the crucial issue of curbing the flow of fentanyl precursors into the United States.” She further emphasized that this trip seeks to build upon the constructive dialogue established over the past year.
/ritzau/Reuters
