Updated on: Oct 25, 2025 02:22 am IST
Trump’s First Asian Visit Since Reassuming Office
President Donald Trump is set to depart for Asia on Friday, where he will engage in crucial discussions with China’s Xi Jinping. Meanwhile, the White House has downplayed rumors of a potential meeting with North Korea’s Kim Jong Un.
Trump plans to meet Xi in South Korea at the conclusion of his tour, with hopes of resolving the ongoing trade conflict between the two largest global economies.
This journey marks Trump’s first visit to Asia since his return to the presidency in January, characterized by a flurry of tariffs and strategic negotiations.
A senior US official emphasized that Trump aims to secure economic agreements that benefit Americans in this economically dynamic region.
Speculation about a meeting with Kim arose after South Korea’s reunification minister suggested a “considerable” possibility, though US officials have stated it is not planned.
Focus on Peace and Economic Partnerships
Trump’s itinerary begins in Malaysia on Sunday for the ASEAN summit, a gathering he previously missed during his first term.
In Malaysia, Trump is expected to finalize a trade agreement and witness the signing of a peace treaty between Thailand and Cambodia, furthering his pursuit of a Nobel Peace Prize.
There is also potential for a meeting with Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva to mend strained relations.
Following Malaysia, Trump will head to Tokyo, where he will meet Japan’s newly appointed Prime Minister, Sanae Takaichi, on Tuesday.
Japan has largely avoided the tariffs imposed by Trump, which targeted countries with perceived unfair trade practices.
Anticipated Meeting with Xi
The highlight of Trump’s trip is expected in South Korea, where he will arrive in Busan on Wednesday for the APEC summit.
During the summit, Trump will meet South Korean President Lee Jae Myung, address business leaders, and dine with US tech executives in Gyeongju.
On Thursday, Trump and Xi will meet for the first time since Trump’s return to office, with global markets closely monitoring the outcome.
The meeting aims to address the trade war initiated by Trump’s tariffs, particularly following disputes over China’s rare earth exports.
Despite initial threats to cancel, Trump confirmed the meeting, emphasizing discussions on trade and economic relations.
Trump also highlighted the importance of addressing fentanyl trafficking, urging China to take action against drug smuggling.
Former advisor Steve Bannon described the talks as a high-stakes gamble, while analysts caution against expecting significant breakthroughs.
“This meeting is a step in an ongoing process rather than a turning point,” noted Ryan Hass from the Brookings Institution.
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