Washington, 15 October 2025 — U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said on Wednesday that President Donald Trump is prepared to meet Chinese leader Xi Jinping at a summit scheduled for later this month, underscoring that the United States seeks dialogue rather than confrontation with Beijing.
The meeting is expected to take place during the Asia‑Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in South Korea, where both leaders will address economic cooperation and regional security. Bessent’s remarks came after weeks of heightened tension, triggered by China’s decision to expand export controls on rare earth minerals and the U.S. response of announcing 100 percent tariffs on Chinese goods, set to take effect on November 1.
De‑Escalation Efforts
Bessent stressed that despite these measures, “substantial communications” have taken place between Washington and Beijing in recent days, with additional staff‑level talks planned. He noted that the administration’s approach is to recalibrate trade relations rather than pursue a full‑scale trade war.
“President Trump is a ‘go’ on that,” Bessent told reporters, adding that both leaders maintain an “excellent relationship” and that the U.S. remains open to adjusting its tariff stance if progress is made.
Strategic Context
- The Trump administration has framed the tariffs as leverage to secure fairer trade practices and protect U.S. industries.
- China’s export restrictions target materials critical to semiconductors, defense, and renewable energy, raising concerns about supply chain vulnerabilities.
- The upcoming summit is viewed as a critical opportunity to stabilize relations between the world’s two largest economies, whose disputes have global implications for markets and technology supply chains.
Outlook
While the path to resolution remains uncertain, the confirmation of the Trump–Xi meeting signals that both sides are willing to keep diplomatic channels open. Analysts suggest the summit could either ease tensions through renewed commitments or further expose the depth of strategic rivalry if no compromise is reached.
In summary, the planned Trump–Xi summit later this month represents both a test and an opportunity: a chance to de‑escalate trade disputes while reaffirming the importance of dialogue in managing one of the world’s most consequential bilateral relationships.
Sources: U.S. Treasury statements; CNBC; Fox Business; Al Jazeera; Financial Times News18 Al Jazeera | MSN ABP News | MSN Aljazeera Financial Times
