Presidents Xi Jinping and Donald Trump will meet in Busan, the Republic of Korea (ROK), on October 30, marking their first in-person talks since Trump's return to the White House. The highly anticipated meeting underscores the critical role of head-of-state diplomacy in stabilizing bilateral ties amid global economic and geopolitical uncertainties.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun emphasized the 'irreplaceable strategic, guiding role' of leader-level engagement during a recent press briefing. 'We are willing to work with the U.S. side to ensure this meeting provides new impetus for stable bilateral relations,' Guo stated, reflecting Beijing's commitment to constructive dialogue.
This year has seen three phone conversations between the leaders, with Xi stressing mutual success through 'equality, respect, and mutual benefit' during their September 19 discussion. The Chinese leader has consistently framed dialogue as the 'only correct choice' for managing differences, urging both nations to 'steer clear of disturbances' threatening cooperation.
Recent progress in economic consultations—spanning Geneva, London, and Kuala Lumpur—has demonstrated tangible results. Key discussions addressed U.S. Section 301 measures, agricultural trade, and supply chain security, with both sides agreeing to advance 'win-win outcomes.' These developments align with Xi's call to oppose 'decoupling' and maintain global industrial stability.
Fudan University's Professor Wei Zongyou notes: 'Leader meetings prevent misjudgments precisely when challenges arise.' As the world's two largest economies prepare to recalibrate their relationship, this summit could define the trajectory of global trade and security frameworks for years to come.
