I can't say that I know the WH flag protocol. But, I was at the ceremony when Hu Jintao visited the in the spring of 2006. There were Chinese flags in several locations, both on the WH grounds and in the WH itself. But, I don't remember anything other than Old Glory flying above the WH, FWIW.
Don’t they own us now?
White House protocol?
I think they’re making it up as they go along now.
appreciate your response...I am so hoping this is a typical diplomatic thing and nothing more sinister.