US President Donald Trump will meet Xi Jinping on Thursday amid growing optimism about a trade deal. The interaction comes days after top leaders from both countries met on the sidelines of the ASEAN Summit — ironing out the framework for a trade agreement. Trump had also insisted that he is confident about hashing out a deal with the Chinese President during their meeting. Their interaction is also likely to focus on the trade of rare earth elements, ongoing fentanyl crisis and broader geopolitical concerns.
“Bringing back Trillions of Dollars to USA! A great trip. Dealing with very smart, talented, and wonderful Leaders. Tomorrow, President Xi of China. It will be a great meeting for both!!!” Trump wrote on Truth Social.
Ties between the two countries have been rather turbulent in recent months — with both imposing a series of tit-for-tat tariffs and other restrictions since April. Trump had also threatened to impose an additional 100% tariff (starting November 1) on Chinese goods last week after Beijing tightened export controls for rare earth minerals.