High-Stakes in Busan: Trump and Xi's Trade Truce Attempt

U.S. President Donald Trump and China's leader Xi Jinping met in South Korea to discuss a trade-war truce. The leaders expressed optimism but acknowledged challenges such as geopolitical tensions and rare-earth export controls. The summit is a pivotal moment in U.S.-China relations, affecting global markets and strategic alliances.

In a high-stakes meeting at a South Korean air base, U.S. President Donald Trump and China's leader Xi Jinping engaged in discussions aimed at achieving a truce in the ongoing trade war between the two economic giants. This encounter marked the first between the leaders since Trump's return to office and concluded a rapid series of diplomatic visits across Asia.

As Trump and Xi shook hands, the U.S. president expressed confidence in the success of the negotiations, although he characterized Xi as a formidable negotiator. Both leaders acknowledged the frictions inherent in their nations' diplomatic relations, emphasizing the importance of addressing major concerns to strengthen China-U.S. ties.

Despite optimism for a trade agreement at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit, complexities remain. The resurgence of trade tensions, particularly surrounding China's proposed rare-earth export controls and U.S. tariff threats, highlights the fragility of the proposed détente. The talks are closely monitored worldwide given their implications for international trade and political stability.

(With inputs from agencies.)