Ahead of APEC summit, Trump seeks compromise to avoid 100% tariffs, discusses trade and security with Xi
U.S. President Donald Trump, ahead of a summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping in South Korea on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) leaders' meeting, stated, "China must make concessions. We are also willing to make some concessions."
On the 25th, President Trump, during a Q&A session with the White House press corps aboard his presidential aircraft, Air Force One, while on his Asia tour, responded to a question asking, "Does China need to make concessions to reach a deal?" with this remark.
President Trump explained, "The U.S. is currently prepared to impose 157% tariffs on Chinese products. I believe this is unsustainable for China. China also wants tariff reductions, and we want to obtain specific things from them."
Regarding the question about the possibility of imposing 100% additional tariffs on China, he said, "I do not want to see that. It would not be good for them, and I do not want it either," hinting at the possibility of compromise rather than additional tariffs.
President Trump expressed optimism about the upcoming summit with President Xi, stating, "There are many issues to discuss, including past trade agreements, canceled agreements, and new trade agendas. It will be a constructive meeting."
He added, "Both the U.S. and China hope to reach an excellent trade agreement. Discussions will include the resumption of soybean imports by China, as well as issues related to Ukraine and nuclear disarmament."
On the Taiwan issue, President Trump warned, "I hope they do not invade. If they do, it will become very dangerous," while refraining from elaborating, saying, "I do not want to send a complicated message regarding Taiwan policy at this time."
Regarding Russia, he emphasized, "I hope China will assist the U.S. on the Russia issue. The economic sanctions are very strong, and China's role is crucial."
President Trump also mentioned his first meeting with Japan's new prime minister and the tone of trade negotiations with Canada, adding, "We are open to negotiations. We will maintain friendly and fair relations with Japan and Canada."