Kuala lumpur: U.S. President Donald Trump began today an Asian tour that includes Malaysia, Japan, and South Korea, aimed at strengthening economic and security relations between Washington and regional partners. The tour features a high-profile meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping, seen as a key moment in bilateral relations with potential global economic implications.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, speaking aboard Air Force One en route to Asia, Trump said he looks forward to a ‘very good meeting’ with President Xi, expressing hope for a comprehensive agreement that would prevent the planned 100% tariffs on Chinese imports set to take effect on November 1.

He noted that the meeting carries special significance following Beijing’s announcement of reduced exports of rare earth minerals, emphasizing his desire to resolve ongoing trade tensions. Trump also signaled openness to meeting North Korean leader Kim Jong Un during the trip, saying their relationship had been ‘excellent.’

Trump is sche
duled to attend the ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur today, where he is expected to sign a trade agreement with Malaysia and witness the signing of a peace accord between Thailand and Cambodia, following U.S.-mediated talks that led to a ceasefire on July 29.

Later, he will travel to Japan to meet Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, the country’s first female leader, who expressed her wish for ‘frank discussions’ with the U.S. president, particularly regarding the bilateral trade deal signed earlier this year.

The tour will conclude in South Korea, where Trump will attend the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit and hold a meeting with President Xi Jinping in Gyeongju to discuss bilateral economic relations and regional issues of mutual interest.