Washington, Oct 18 (NationPress) US President Donald Trump has confirmed that he will meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping in South Korea "in a couple of weeks," coinciding with the upcoming Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit scheduled for late this month.

Trump made this announcement during a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the White House, amid escalating trade tensions between the two major powers following Beijing's decision to impose stricter export controls on rare earth elements, which are crucial for the manufacturing of various military and commercial products, according to reports from Yonhap news agency.

"China wants to talk, and we appreciate talking to China," he stated. "We have a very positive relationship, and we will be meeting in South Korea in a couple of weeks."

Highlighting his tariff strategy, Trump asserted that the US is in a "very strong" position ahead of the expected meeting in Korea.

When questioned if his encounter with Xi might result in a trade agreement, Trump responded, "There could be."

"They want to engage in dialogue, and we are communicating, and I believe we will reach a deal that benefits both parties," he expressed. "I think we will accomplish something," he added.

Just last Friday, Trump criticized China's action concerning export controls and hinted at the possibility of canceling the upcoming meeting with Xi. He also announced intentions to impose an additional 100% tariff on Chinese imports beginning Nov. 1 and to enforce export controls on all essential software on the same day.

Regarding the tariff strategy, Trump mentioned he could "accelerate it" if he chooses, emphasizing that China does not desire the tariff to come into effect.

Trump also referred to South Korea, Japan, and the European Union, underscoring, "All we ask for is fair treatment."

"Being treated fairly is worth hundreds of billions and even trillions of dollars flowing into the United States, and our national security is safeguarded due to tariffs. Without tariffs, our national security would be compromised. Therefore, this is of utmost importance," he explained.

In a Fox Business interview aired earlier in the day, Trump reiterated that he and Xi have a "separate" meeting scheduled.

"We will meet in a couple of weeks in South Korea," he remarked. "President Xi and others will also be present. We are set to meet separately."

On the tariff discussion concerning China, Trump seemed to soften his stance.

"It's not sustainable, but that's the current figure," he commented. "It may persist, but they compelled me to take this route. I believe we will manage well with China.

Trump also commended Xi, describing his life as an "incredible story."

"I have a great relationship with him; he is a very strong leader... an amazing individual," he stated.

He reiterated that the United States requires a "fair deal" with China, reiterating his claim that China has "taken advantage of" America.

Diplomatic sources in Seoul reported that both Trump and Xi are likely to undertake state visits to South Korea during the APEC summit, which is set to occur in the southeastern city of Gyeongju on Oct. 31 and Nov. 1.

Trump is anticipated to embark on a two-day visit starting Oct. 29, during which he is expected to hold summit discussions with President Lee Jae Myung.