Hu at Bill's gates

There is a tremendous amount of interest surrounding Hu, thanks mainly to his being a puzzle for the Chinese as well as foreigners. The media has made much of his photographic memory, and the fact that he manages to discuss policy without reference to any briefing papers.

For now, talks between both leaders will supposedly be dominated by issues such as bilateral trade, Taiwan (which broke away from China during the 1949 civil war), human rights and international security. Experts believe the growing US trade deficit with China will also be highlighted.

Image: President Hu Jintao waves after being presented with a hat by Boeing employee Paul Demier (right), during his tour of Boeing's Commercial Airplane facility in Everett, Washington, on Wednesday. To the left is Boeing Executive Vice President Alan Mulally.

Photograph: Jim Bryant/AFP/Getty Images

Also See: Journey to the Middle Kingdom