A critical sideline discussion is scheduled for Thursday at the APEC summit, where US President Donald Trump will meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping.
The meeting, confirmed by Trump in Tokyo, comes at a moment of high tension. “That’s a big meeting, and I think it’s going to work out very well,” Trump said.
Tensions have flared after a period of calm. China imposed rare earth export controls, and the US responded with a 100% tariff threat and new port fees.
This has sparked a new wave of mutual countermeasures from Beijing.
Trump, however, projected confidence, calling the meeting “fantastic” and “great for everybody.”
“I will be meeting with President Xi the day after tomorrow,” Trump stated. “We will be going to South Korea and the following day I am meeting with President Xi… That’s a big meeting.”