TRUMP AND XI CONVENE IN KOREA; INTRODUCING STATUESQUE IN THE STRAINED RELATIONS

This week will be remembered in the realm of global affairs for the historic meeting between Xi and Trump, which Trump rated as a "12 out of 10".

- WORLD RECAP ANSHU JOSHI

Trump praised the 'amazing' meeting with China's Xi, although no formal trade agreement was reached. After enduring a period of significant friction and negative remarks directed at one another, both Trump and Xi appeared to recognize the reality of their situations and the domestic challenges they face. They convened on the sidelines of the APEC summit in South Korea and emerged with some, if not all, positive outcomes.

While Trump expressed enthusiasm about the meeting, Xi remained reserved. He was composed and only articulated what he had prepared in advance. It appears that Xi was aware of Trump's vulnerabilities and effectively utilized them during the negotiations. Also, China has learned from Trump's first term, capitalizing on its dominance in rare earths and diversifying its trade relationships to reduce dependence on the US. Subsequently, Xi adopted a more measured tone in his statements compared to Trump. He indicated that both parties would be focused on achieving results that would act as a "reassuring pill" for the economies of both nations. Nevertheless, he commended Trump for facilitating discussions between Israel and Hamas to declare a ceasefire.