Trump and Xi Jinping Meeting: Global Power Shift at APEC Summit
Trump And Xi Jinping Meeting 2025: US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping met face-to-face today after six years during the APEC Summit held in Busan, South Korea. This meeting is being seen as a significant turning point in the global power equation, as it marked the first in-person conversation between the two biggest economic powers since the trade and diplomatic tensions that followed their previous talks. Both leaders discussed trade, defence, and strategic issues that could shape the global political and economic landscape in the coming years.
Significance of the Meeting
This was the first in-person meeting between Trump and Xi since their last encounter in Osaka, Japan, in 2019. Over the past six years, the United States and China have experienced escalating trade wars, tariffs, technology restrictions, and other conflicts. This meeting is therefore considered crucial as it represents a major step towards easing tensions between the two countries. Trump referred to Xi as “a great leader of a great nation,” while Xi called the meeting “a pleasant occasion.” Both acknowledged that complete agreement might not be possible but expressed their intent to move forward together.
Trade and Investment Agreements
Trump also signed a key trade deal with South Korean President Lee Jae-myung. Under this agreement, South Korea will invest $350 billion in the United States — including $200 billion in direct cash investment and $150 billion in the American shipbuilding industry. In return, the US will lower import taxes on South Korean goods, with the automobile tariff being reduced from 25% to 15%. This deal is expected to strengthen defence and economic partnerships while expanding South Korea’s share in the US market.
Cooperation in Defence and Shipbuilding
Both nations discussed enhancing cooperation in the defence and shipbuilding sectors. Hanwha Ocean, a South Korean company, recently acquired the American firm Philly Shipyard earlier this year and is now planning an additional $5 billion investment. Moreover, the US has granted South Korea permission to build nuclear-powered submarines — a move considered a major strategic advancement.
Fentanyl and Trade Disputes
Trump also stated that if China restricts the export of chemicals used to manufacture fentanyl, the US would consider lowering the 20% tariffs imposed on Chinese goods. This reflects a diplomatic effort to resolve trade tensions through negotiation. Although a complete resolution of the trade dispute appears unlikely, both sides have agreed to move forward on issues related to tariffs, TikTok, and rare minerals.
Impact on Global Politics and Economy
The APEC Summit and the Busan meeting could pave the way for renewed global economic cooperation, signalling a shift from economic protectionism to multilateral collaboration. South Korea, as the host nation, has positioned itself as a mediator fostering harmony between the US and China. Experts believe the meeting could signal a thaw in US–China trade and political tensions, though it may not resolve all underlying issues. Nevertheless, it could mark the beginning of a new era of coexistence where competition and cooperation coexist side by side.
Conclusion
This meeting between Trump and Xi Jinping after six years has revived hopes for better relations between the world’s two largest economies. The discussions held in South Korea are expected to influence global economic and security strategies. The evolving cooperation model between the US and China could contribute to maintaining global power balance and stability. The real impact of this meeting on the global power game will become evident in the months to come.
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