Taiwan shut schools and businesses as Typhoon Champi approached, forcing over 1,200 people to evacuate. At least one person was killed and dozens injured, with authorities warning of torrential rainfall, flooding and powerful winds as the storm moved towards China and Japan. (PICS/AFP)

US President Donald Trump on Thursday (local time) welcomed Chinese President Xi Jinping and First Lady Peng Liyuan at the White House for a state dinner, saying ties between the two nations have strengthened despite differences in their systems. (Pics/AFP)