U.S. President Donald Trump has suggested that his ongoing Asia tour might be extended to include a meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, expressing that he “would love” to sit down for talks.
Trump, who departed for Japan on Monday, October 27, is continuing his multi-nation trip across Asia — a journey that could potentially lead to a breakthrough in trade negotiations between the United States and China, the world’s two largest economies.
Speaking to journalists aboard Air Force One, Trump voiced optimism about his upcoming meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping, scheduled for Thursday, October 30, in South Korea. He also hinted at the possibility of meeting Kim while in the region.
“I have great respect for President Xi, and I believe we’re on the verge of reaching an agreement,” Trump said, noting that earlier discussions in Malaysia between U.S. and Chinese negotiators had been encouraging.
Before leaving Washington, Trump had already stirred speculation about a potential encounter with Kim, remarking that he was “open” to the idea.
“If he’s willing to meet, I’ll be in South Korea,” Trump added.
The U.S. president is set to arrive in the South Korean port city of Busan on Wednesday, October 29, ahead of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit, where he will also hold talks with South Korean President Lee Jae Myung.
According to South Korea’s Reunification Minister, there remains a “considerable” likelihood that Trump and Kim could meet during the visit.
Meanwhile, Kim Jong Un has indicated a readiness to meet — but only if Washington eases its demand for Pyongyang to completely abandon its nuclear weapons program.
