New Delhi, Oct 30: US President Donald Trump, during his ongoing Asia tour, has indicated a shift toward easing global trade tensions, expressing intent to strike a “trade deal” with India and signaling progress in talks with China.
Speaking in Gyeongju, South Korea, after visiting Japan, Trump said he plans to resume negotiations for a bilateral trade agreement with New Delhi. “I’m doing a trade deal with India, and I have great respect and love for Prime Minister Modi. We have a great relationship,” he remarked, adding praise for Modi’s leadership and personality.
The statement marks the first time Trump has publicly acknowledged efforts to restart trade discussions with India since imposing steep tariffs — including a 25 percent “reciprocal tariff” and another 25 percent penalty for India’s purchase of Russian oil.
Trump’s comments come amid his broader goal of reducing global conflicts — both military and economic. The US President has often positioned himself as a peacemaker seeking to end wars and trade disputes.
Following his India remarks, Trump met Chinese Premier Xi Jinping in Busan, South Korea, to address tensions between the world’s two largest economies. According to reports from China’s Ministry of Commerce and state media, both leaders highlighted the need to maintain stability in bilateral relations. Trump described Xi as a “very distinguished and respected” leader, calling their long-standing relationship a “friendship.”
BBC reported that this was the first face-to-face meeting between Trump and Xi since 2019, during which they held a two-hour private discussion. CNN added that the talks yielded “agreement on almost everything,” with both sides moving toward reducing tariffs on Chinese goods from 57 percent to 47 percent, citing progress on issues like soybean imports and fentanyl control.
Trump also announced plans to visit Beijing in April next year.
