The trip will focus on trade, defence, nuclear cooperation, and attracting new investments to the United States
Washington
US President Donald Trump is preparing to travel to South Korea in late October for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in Gyeongju, where a possible meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping is under discussion, CNN reported.
Senior officials confirmed talks are underway for a Trump–Xi bilateral meeting, though no final decision has been reached. Xi recently invited Trump to visit China, and the US President extended a reciprocal invitation, but dates remain undecided.
The trip is expected to focus on economic collaboration, trade, defence, and civil nuclear cooperation, according to White House sources. Trump may also seek fresh investments in the US, following similar efforts during recent visits to the Middle East.
Speculation continues over whether North Korean leader Kim Jong Un will attend. South Korean President Lee Jae Myung, who invited Trump to the summit, has suggested it could be a chance for renewed Trump–Kim talks. Trump signaled willingness, saying, “He’d like to meet with me, and we’ll make relations better.”
The visit comes at a sensitive moment. Xi recently hosted Kim, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Beijing, drawing criticism from Trump, despite his claims of maintaining strong personal ties with all three.
Trump has paused higher tariffs on Chinese goods until November, as trade negotiations continue. Earlier this year, he imposed 145% tariffs on Chinese imports, prompting Beijing’s 125% retaliation. Talks in Europe between economic advisers aim to find common ground.
Officials emphasise that Trump’s presence at the APEC summit will be closely watched, with the Xi meeting considered the top priority.
