Trump to Meet Xi in South Korea Despite Trade Dispute

Strategic Insights -

US President Donald Trump is set to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping in South Korea later this month, despite tensions over trade and China's export controls on rare earths. The meeting was confirmed by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent during a Fox Business interview. Bessent stated that there has been substantial communication between the two sides over the weekend, which may have helped to salvage the meeting.

Key Takeaways:

  • Trump plans to meet with Xi in South Korea on undisclosed dates.
  • The meeting was confirmed by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent in a Fox Business interview.
  • The meeting was initially in doubt after Trump criticized China's export control measure on rare earths.
  • Bessent stated that there has been substantial communication between the two sides over the weekend.
  • The US has been sensitive to China's restrictions on rare earths, which are critical elements used in the production of electronic devices, weapons systems, and other consumer tech products.
  • The meeting is set to take place during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in Gyeongju, South Korea, from October 31 to November 1.
  • Trump's decision to visit South Korea is separate from the meeting with Xi, but holds significant importance as the country is set to host the APEC summit.

Statistics:

  • No specific statistics were mentioned in the article.
  • The Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit will be held in Gyeongju, South Korea, from October 31 to November 1.
  • The meeting between Trump and Xi will take place in South Korea, but the exact dates were not disclosed.

Sources:

  • Bernama news agency
  • Yonhap news agency
  • Fox Business