Chinese Vice President Xi Jinping has completed his second visit to the United States. Mr. Xi's trip reciprocated last year's visit to China by U.S. Vice President Joe Biden. That trip launched a "get acquainted" effort with Mr. Xi, the man set to become China's president next year.

Mr. Xi had his own agenda. He was trying to establish his credentials as a leader. Throughout his visit, he was speaking to two audiences: his hosts and the Chinese back home. To the former, he was attempting to build a relationship that would anchor the two countries' relations when he takes office.

At the same time, he was showing the Chinese people that he could represent their country and defend its national interests.