WASHINGTON D.C. – The White House confirmed today that President Donald Trump’s highly anticipated trip to China will proceed as scheduled, largely unaffected by recent, unrelated geopolitical events. Despite the passing of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, a development that has no direct bearing on Sino-American relations, presidential advisors insist the trip’s objectives remain firmly in sight.

“President Trump is focused on securing the best possible trade deal for the American people, and that means going to China,” stated press secretary Olivia Nunez. “He’s very much looking forward to seeing the Wall, which he’s heard is quite big, and meeting with the Chinese leader to discuss, you know, China stuff. The passing of a foreign dignitary from a completely different country, while sad, doesn’t change that.”

Inside sources indicate the President’s itinerary, which includes a potential photo opportunity with pandas and a state dinner, is considered paramount. “Frankly, we’re more concerned about the catering than who’s in charge of Tehran,” said an anonymous State Department official. “The President has a very specific preference for well-done steak.”

When asked if the administration understood the distinction between China and Iran, Nunez reiterated, “The President is a very smart man. He knows where China is. He’s going there to make deals. Period.” Critics, however, suggest the administration’s geographic and political compass may be slightly off. The trip is expected to conclude with a golf outing, location TBD, potentially in a country that is neither China nor Iran.