Is Xi Jinping's Visit to South Korea a Turning Point?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
Chinese President Xi Jinping's arrival in South Korea marks a pivotal moment as he prepares for crucial talks with President Trump and Lee Jae Myung during the APEC summit. As global tensions rise, the outcomes of these discussions could redefine relationships in the Asia-Pacific region.
Key Takeaways
- Xi Jinping's visit is significant for China-South Korea relations.
- High-profile meetings with Trump and Lee Jae Myung are scheduled.
- The ongoing US-China trade war remains a central theme.
- Potential discussions may lead to upgraded trade agreements.
- Regional alliances are shifting amidst rising tensions.
Seoul, Oct 30 (NationPress) President Xi Jinping of China has arrived in South Korea on Thursday to participate in the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit and engage in discussions with South Korean President Lee Jae Myung and US President Donald Trump regarding significant matters including tariffs and security.
A flight transporting Xi landed at Gimhae International Airport, marking his first visit to South Korea since 2014, just ahead of his anticipated meeting with Trump in the southeastern port city of Busan, set to commence at 11 a.m.
Earlier on the same day, Trump boarded Marine One, the presidential helicopter, in Gyeongju, the host city for this year's APEC events, before proceeding to Gimhae airport.
This visit could potentially shape the future of Beijing's relations with both Seoul and Washington amidst the intensifying US-China trade and security tensions, which have solidified the Seoul-Washington-Tokyo alliance against China and its partners.
The upcoming discussion between Xi and Trump occurs while both nations continue to grapple with a tariff dispute, as Beijing enhances its export controls on rare earth elements and Washington threatens to impose an additional 100 percent tariff.
Recently, trade negotiators from both countries achieved a framework agreement in Malaysia, setting the stage for the upcoming summit between Trump and Xi, effectively averting drastic US tariffs on Chinese products.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has stated that the proposed 100 percent tariffs are now “effectively off the table,” in a recent media interview.
While announcing the forthcoming discussions on Wednesday, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun mentioned, “The two leaders will engage in profound communication regarding strategic and long-term issues concerning China-US relations, as well as significant mutual concerns.”
“We are eager to collaborate with the US to ensure that this meeting produces fruitful outcomes, offers new guidance, and injects fresh momentum into the stable progression of China-US relations,” Guo Jiakun added.
Xi's separate meeting with Lee, scheduled for Saturday, is anticipated to be pivotal in defining the future of South Korea-China relations, which have cooled in recent years due to the escalating US-China tensions. This situation has reinforced the alignment between Seoul, Washington, and Tokyo, favoring the United States.
Lee and Xi are widely expected to utilize their upcoming meeting to reaffirm the importance of maintaining close ties as critical economic partners and neighboring countries.
Topics likely to be discussed at the Lee-Xi summit include calls to upgrade their decade-old free trade agreement, expand a visa-free travel initiative, address issues related to North Korea, and enhance bilateral exchange programs, according to Yonhap News Agency.
During his speeches at APEC and discussions with other leaders, Xi is also expected to stress China's commitment to multilateralism, free trade, and advocating for the rights of developing nations, reiterating its anti-protectionist stance in response to the US.
A significant point of interest during Xi's visit will be the possibility of a bilateral meeting with new Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, following criticisms from Chinese state media regarding her defense of Japan's imperialist history.
Point of View
It is essential to emphasize the significance of Xi Jinping's visit to South Korea. This meeting not only highlights the complexities of international relations amidst rising tensions but also underscores the importance of diplomatic dialogue in navigating these challenges. A balanced approach is necessary to ensure that relations between the involved nations remain constructive and forward-looking.
NationPress
31/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main topics of discussion during Xi's visit?
The discussions will focus on tariffs, security, bilateral relations, and potential upgrades to existing trade agreements.
Why is this Xi's first visit to South Korea in 11 years?
Xi's visit comes after a prolonged period of strained relations between China and South Korea, attributed to geopolitical tensions.
What impact could Xi's talks with Trump have?
The outcomes of these discussions may influence the ongoing US-China trade war and set the tone for future diplomatic relations.
Is there a possibility of Xi meeting with Japan's Prime Minister?
Yes, there is speculation about a potential bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, which could address historical tensions.
How does this visit affect regional alliances?
Xi's visit could further solidify the alignment between South Korea, the US, and Japan in response to China's growing influence.
