Trump Optimistic on Upcoming Xi Jinping Meeting: Key Global Issues on the Table

Trade Negotiations With Xi Jinping Expected to Be Critical

Washington, Yonhap News – On October 24, U.S. President Donald Trump expressed optimism regarding his forthcoming meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit in South Korea. Trump underscored the importance of U.S.-China trade negotiations, stating, "They [China] will need to make concessions. I think we will too.”

During a media briefing aboard Air Force One on October 25, Trump reaffirmed the necessity of mutual compromise to reach a trade agreement. Speaking on the ongoing tariff dispute, he revealed that the U.S. is contemplating imposing a substantial 157% tariff on Chinese products. However, he added, "I don't believe that's sustainable for them. They want us to lower tariffs, and we want certain things from them."

In response to inquiries about the potential implementation of an additional 100% tariff on Chinese goods, Trump remarked, "I don’t know. It’s not important. I don’t think they would want that—it wouldn’t be good for them, and frankly, I don’t want to see that either."

A Packed Agenda: Trade, Tariffs, and Broader Economic Discussions

As the U.S.-China relationship faces heightened tensions, Trump emphasized the importance of addressing a wide range of issues during the meeting with Xi. "There are many things to discuss, including various trade agreements signed in the past—some of which have been terminated, while others remain intact. We have a lot to work on, and I believe it will be a good meeting," he stated.

The summit is likely to cover critical topics such as tariffs, long-standing trade disputes, China's current suspension of U.S. soybean imports, and broader geopolitical matters, including the Ukraine war and nuclear disarmament. Trump, speaking earlier on October 22, expressed confidence, commenting, "I believe progress will be made."

Taiwan Conflict and the U.S. Approach

Trump also addressed mounting concerns over a potential Chinese invasion of Taiwan, highlighting the associated risks of such a scenario. "I hope they don’t do that. We’ll have to wait and see. They might, or they might not. But I hope they don’t—it would be very dangerous," Trump cautioned when pressed on the issue.

Regarding possible adjustments to U.S. policy on Taiwan, Trump opted not to elaborate, saying, "I don’t want to discuss that at the moment or add complexity. This trip is already complicated enough. China wants a great next decade, and they can have it. Alternatively, they could face a tough period, but they certainly don’t want that." These remarks signal reluctance to escalate tensions while maintaining strategic ambiguity on Taiwan.

U.S.-China Cooperation on Sanctions Against Russia

Another key topic expected to surface during the Trump-Xi meeting is cooperation on addressing the Russia issue. Trump underscored his hope for Chinese assistance in adhering to and reinforcing U.S.-led sanctions on Moscow amidst the Ukraine conflict. "We have imposed very strong sanctions on Russia. These sanctions will be painful and tough, but we hope China will lend us support. I maintain a very good relationship with President Xi, and I am confident we can have a productive meeting," Trump said.

When asked about the effectiveness of the sanctions in curbing Russian operations, Trump remained resolute, dismissing concerns about potential overreach. "I don’t think so. Putin claims the sanctions won’t be effective, but I believe he’s mistaken," he stated, reinforcing his administration’s firm stance on penalizing Russia for its actions in Ukraine.

Positive Outlook for Relations With Japan's Prime Minister

In a more optimistic tone, Trump expressed enthusiasm for working with Takako Takaichi, Japan's newly-appointed prime minister. Fondly recounting his friendship with the late Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Trump noted, "She was a good friend of the great man Mr. Abe. He thought very highly of her, and she thought very highly of him. That’s a good sign, and I look forward to meeting her."

When probed on potential renegotiations of existing trade agreements with Japan under the new leadership, Trump demonstrated openness to dialogue. "She might [seek renegotiations]. But I’m open to whatever they want. We have an excellent relationship with Japan, and I believe we’ll develop a fantastic relationship with her as well," he assured.

Status Quo Retained on Canadian Trade Talks

In contrast to his proactive posture towards U.S.-China trade relations, Trump signaled a preference for maintaining the current terms of trade with Canada. "I don’t think there’s much they can do. So, I’d rather leave things as they are—it works very well for us," he stated, reaffirming his administration's stance against pursuing significant negotiations with the neighboring country.

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President Trump's comments ahead of the APEC Summit underscore his multi-faceted diplomatic agenda, combining optimism with strategic caution. From tackling trade disputes with China to seeking international cooperation on Russia sanctions, the upcoming meeting with President Xi presents an opportunity to address critical global challenges. As Trump balances contentious issues, his remarks suggest an approach rooted in pragmatism and anticipation of positive outcomes across the board.