Trump and Xi Plan South Korea Meeting Amid Renewed Trade Tensions

U.S. President Donald Trump will meet Chinese President Xi Jinping next week in South Korea during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit, marking their first face-to-face meeting in Trump's second term amid escalating trade and tariff tensions. The meeting, confirmed by the White House, will occur after Trump addresses the APEC CEO Summit and follows a broader Asia tour including visits to Malaysia and Japan. Key issues expected to dominate discussions include trade disputes, with Washington seeking tariff reductions on Korean goods and addressing accusations against Beijing regarding fentanyl precursor chemicals. South Korean President Lee Jae Myung will also hold summit talks with both Trump and Xi during the APEC forum, highlighting the event's diplomatic significance. Despite heightened tensions, Trump has expressed optimism about reaching a positive outcome, contrasting with his trade team's tougher stance. This summit is viewed as a critical moment that could influence global markets and the future trajectory of U.S.-China relations.