Trump's Potential China Visit: A Diplomatic Tightrope

U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Tuesday that while he is not actively seeking a summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping, he is open to visiting China if extended a formal invitation by Xi. Trump confirmed this approach, stating that he would only consider a trip if the invitation were extended, a condition he said has been met.

Despite no finalized plans, aides from both administrations have reportedly been discussing the possibility of a meeting between the leaders during Trump's proposed trip to Asia later this year, according to sources familiar with the matter. This trip, if realized, would mark the first direct engagement between Trump and Xi during his second term, against a backdrop of lingering trade and security tensions.

Potential discussions could take place around the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in South Korea or during separate talks coinciding with the October 30-November 1 event. Analysts note that ongoing U.S.-China trade negotiations in Stockholm might pave the way for an eventual leaders' summit, although escalating tariffs and export controls could complicate these plans.

(With inputs from agencies.)