Washington, Oct 18 – President Donald Trump said he will meet Chinese President Xi Jinping in South Korea in a couple of weeks, as the country hosts the APEC summit from Oct 31 to Nov 1. Trump made the comments while meeting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the White House.
The two leaders are preparing for talks that could shape trade and security ties after China tightened export controls on rare‑earth metals. Those metals are critical for military tech and many consumer gadgets, increasing pressure on U.S. trade policy.
“I want to talk with China, and we’re ready to talk,” Trump explained. “We have a good relationship, and we’re heading to South Korea in a short time to continue the conversation.”
Trump spelled out his position on tariffs. He said the United States is “in a very strong” spot because of the tariffs he has imposed on Chinese goods, and that a trade deal could be possible. “They want to talk, and we’re talking,” he said, adding that a deal would benefit both sides.
Earlier this week, Trump warned that China’s export‑control move could derail the meeting. He also threatened a 100 % tariff on Chinese imports starting Nov 1 and said he would control critical software exports the same day. Trump noted he could speed up the tariff if needed and that China resists the idea.
“We want to be treated fairly,” Trump stressed. “It’s about billions and trillions of dollars flowing into the U.S. and keeping our national security strong through the use of tariffs. If we didn’t have them, our security would suffer.”
In an interview on Fox Business, Trump reiterated the meeting will happen in South Korea, saying, “President Xi and others will be there. It’s a separate meeting we’ve set up.” He softened his tone on the tariff plan, saying it’s not sustainable for long but a “forced” move that will eventually work out.
Trump praised Xi, describing his life as “a wonderful story” and noting Xi is a strong leader. Still, he insisted the U.S. needs a fair deal and warned that China has “been ripping off” American businesses.
Diplomats in Seoul say Trump and Xi will likely attend state visits during the APEC summit in Gyeongju, South Korea. Trump is expected to arrive on Oct 29 for a two‑day trip that will include talks with South Korean President Lee Jae‑Myung.
These developments come as U.S. officials brace for negotiations that could reshape U.S.–China trade and have broader implications for global supply chains and national security.
Source: ianslive
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