Trump, Xi aides discussed autumn US-China leaders' meeting, sources say
WASHINGTON/BEIJING - Aides to Mr Donald Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping have discussed a potential meeting between the leaders during a trip by the US president to Asia later this year, according to two people familiar with the plans.
While plans for a meeting have not been finalised, discussions on both sides of the Pacific have included a possible stopover by Mr Trump around the time of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in South Korea or talks on the sidelines of the Oct 30 - Nov 1 event, the people said.
Mr Trump has sought to lower tensions with Beijing in recent weeks after pausing a tit-for-tat tariff war that has upended global trade and supply chains.
China has also sought the attendance of international guests, including some from the United States, for a Sept 3 Beijing ceremony commemorating the 80th anniversary of the end of World War Two, said a spokesperson for China's embassy in Washington in a briefing last week for reporters.
The Kremlin said on July 21 that it did not rule out the possibility of Russian President Vladimir Putin and Mr Trump meeting in Beijing in September if Mr Trump decides to attend that ceremony. Mr Putin has confirmed his attendance.
'Diplomacy between heads of state plays an irreplaceable strategic leading role in Sino-US relations,' said Chinese Foreign Affairs Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun on July 21, declining to comment on a possible Trump-Xi meeting.
The White House declined to comment.
Top stories
Swipe. Select. Stay informed.
World US President Trump 'caught off guard' by Israel's strikes in Syria
World US not rushing trade deals ahead of August deadline, will talk with China, Bessent says
Opinion Singapore's vaping crisis lays bare the drug addiction nightmare for parents
Singapore LTA seeks tailored solutions to improve Bukit Panjang LRT's maintenance inspections
Multimedia 'It's very sad': She comforts loved ones turned away by inmates
Singapore Subsidies and grants for some 20,000 people miscalculated due to processing issue: MOH
Opinion Sumiko at 61: 7 facts about facial skin ageing, and skincare ingredients that actually work
Opinion With Shatec cutting back operations, what's next for the hospitality sector?
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said on July 21 there would be 'talks in the very near future' between the countries.
'Trade is in a good place, and I think now we can start talking about other things. The Chinese, unfortunately ... are very large purchasers of sanctioned Iranian oil, sanctioned Russian oil,' he told CNBC.
He added: 'We could also discuss the elephant in the room, which is this great rebalancing that the Chinese need to do.'
Mr Trump has sought to impose tariffs on virtually all foreign goods, which he says will stimulate domestic manufacturing and which critics say will make many consumer goods more expensive for Americans.
He has called for a universal base tariff rate of 10 per cent on goods imported from all countries, with higher rates for imports from some, including China. Imports from China have the highest tariff rate of 55 per cent.
Mr Trump has set a
deadline of August 12 for the US and China to reach a durable tariff agreement. Other points of friction between the countries include China's support for Russia, trade in fentanyl-related chemicals, regional security worries, and exit bans on some American residents.
The most recent high-level US-China meeting was on July 11, when US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi had what both described as a productive and positive meeting in Malaysia about how trade negotiations should proceed.
Mr Rubio said then that Mr Trump had been invited to China to meet with Mr Xi, and said that both leaders 'want it to happen'.
On July 18, China Commerce Minister Wang Wentao said China wants to bring its trade ties with the US back to a stable footing and that recent talks in Europe showed there was no need for a tariff war. REUTERS
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Straits Times
an hour ago
- Straits Times
Vietnam to buy two Lockheed Martin helicopters, sources say, as US trade talks carry on
HANOI - Vietnam's police ministry has agreed to buy two Lockheed Martin helicopters, according to three people with knowledge of the talks, in what would be a key security deal since Washington lifted an arms embargo on the Communist-run nation a decade ago. The deal would come after the country's ministry of public security held protracted talks since at least 2022 with multiple U.S. defence companies to acquire helicopters. Lockheed Martin is also negotiating with Vietnam's defence ministry the sale of C-130 military transport planes, multiple officials have said. The Southeast Asian country, which relies heavily on Russian weapons, has been looking for years to diversify its arsenal. It is also currently negotiating with the Trump administration key elements of a tariff deal that is crucial to maintain access to its largest export market. Vietnamese pilots have already been training with Lockheed Martin's Sikorsky helicopters, one of the sources with direct knowledge said, noting the deal was worth more than $100 million and could include more choppers at a later stage. The source did not specify the chopper model under discussion but said pilots were training with S-92 helicopters, which are employed in several countries for both civilian and military uses. Another two sources briefed on the talks confirmed Vietnam had agreed to buy two Lockheed Martin helicopters but gave no information about the cost and the model. All sources declined to be named because the information was not public. Top stories Swipe. Select. Stay informed. Asia Live: Thai-Cambodia border clash Asia At least 2 Thai civilians killed as Thai and Cambodian militaries clash at disputed border Singapore Boy, 15, charged after being caught with vapes 5 times; ordered to stay 2 years in S'pore Boys' Home Business MOM probing work injury claim flagged by late Sumo Salad boss Jane Lee: MOS Dinesh Business New tie-up offers insurance savings for SMEs committed to workers' health and well-being Singapore What's key to a good life? Most Singapore residents choose emotional and mental well-being Asia No credible proof of Jho Low's location or passport use, says Malaysian Home Minister Asia South Korea police raid offices of BTS' agency Hybe over share probe Reuters could not establish when the deal could be completed and whether there were contractual aspects to be defined. Since an arms embargo on Vietnam was lifted in 2016, U.S. security deals with its former foe have been limited to coastguard ships and trainer aircraft, which could lead to the procurement of military planes. Lockheed Martin said queries on procurement should be directed to the Vietnamese government. Calls to Vietnam's ministry of public security went unanswered. The foreign ministry did not reply to a request for comment. Vietnam's parliament approved in June 2022 the establishment of a mobile police unit to tackle crime, terrorism and riots, which would need helicopters to operate, according to the government and the text of the 2022 legislation. U.S. officials have said Washington sees Vietnam as a key player on regional security and would be willing to boost Vietnam's defence, especially in the South China Sea, where it is often at odds with China over disputed boundaries. Support for the police could be more controversial. The latest U.S. State Department's report on human rights in Vietnam, released in 2023, warned of significant violations and abuses by security forces. Vietnam's foreign ministry has said the report was biased and inaccurate. The sources did not explicitly link the possible procurement deal to tariff talks, but Vietnamese and U.S. officials have repeatedly said purchases of U.S. military equipment would strengthen Hanoi's position in negotiating a fully-fledged trade agreement. U.S. President Donald Trump announced earlier in July a deal on 20% tariffs for Vietnamese goods imported into the United States, 40% levies on transshipped products and no duties for U.S. exports to Vietnam. However, Hanoi has instead talked of a preliminary framework agreement. Talks are still underway to finalise the agreement. REUTERS
Straits Times
an hour ago
- Straits Times
Style News: Takashi Murakami's second Casetify collab, in-store pilates at Lululemon's experiential store
Find out what's new on ST website and app. Casetify drops Takashi Murakami collection The world cannot get enough of Takashi Murakami and, it seems, neither can Casetify. In its second collaboration with the Japanese artist, global tech accessories brand Casetify spotlights two Murakami characters. Innocent Kaikai and mischievous Kiki symbolise the dual forces that drive artistic expression and the collaborative spirit in Murakami's world. They appear on a bevy of products, including phone charms ($141), Snappy trading cardholders ($112), Dangler figurine blind boxes ($70), collectible earbud cases, each in the shape of the two characters ($425), and phone cases ($99). Takashi Murakami x Casetify Bounce Suitcase. PHOTO: CASETIFY The whimsical prints also adorn the Bounce Carry-on Suitcase ($999) and Bounce Trunk Suitcase ($1,289), both from Casetify's Travel collection that was launched in Singapore in May. Leveraging the brand's expertise in impact protection for travel gear, the hard-shell suitcases are customisable and made-to-order. Info: Limited pieces available at Casetify Studio, B3-14 Ion Orchard, 2 Orchard Turn In-store yoga and pilates at Lululemon's refreshed store Lululemon's refreshed Takashimaya store. PHOTO: LULULEMON The Canadian activewear giant has unveiled its refreshed Takashimaya Shopping Centre store – and there are more than just leggings here. Top stories Swipe. Select. Stay informed. Asia Live: Thai-Cambodia border clash Asia At least 2 Thai civilians killed as Thai and Cambodian militaries clash at disputed border Singapore Boy, 15, charged after being caught with vapes 5 times; ordered to stay 2 years in S'pore Boys' Home Business MOM probing work injury claim flagged by late Sumo Salad boss Jane Lee: MOS Dinesh Business New tie-up offers insurance savings for SMEs committed to workers' health and well-being Singapore What's key to a good life? Most Singapore residents choose emotional and mental well-being Singapore Over 2 years' jail for man who worked with wife to cheat her then-boyfriend of $220k Asia South Korea police raid offices of BTS' agency Hybe over share probe Relocated from its former unit on the third floor, the new Lululemon outlet is its first retail-meets-wellness collaboration concept in South-east Asia, bringing product and practice together under one roof. Put your newly purchased Lululemon gear straight to work next door at the integrated local movement studio, Within. Within Studio at Lululemon's Takashimaya store. PHOTO: LULULEMON Founded by brand ambassador Betty Kong, the 1,842 sq ft studio offers a range of yoga and reformer pilates classes – starting at $40 for one drop-in yoga class and $55 for one reformer class. Classes are led by expert instructors, including Ms Kong, who was one of the first ambassadors at the previous Takashimaya store. Lululemon's Takashimaya store. PHOTO: LULULEMON Regular shoppers can still find their favourite lines – including the Align tanks and leggings, and men's ABC Pants – in the store which, at 5,994 sq ft, is Lululemon's largest in Singapore. Info: B1-16 to 22 Takashimaya Shopping Centre, 391 Orchard Road Boss Fragrances' boozy pop-up Boss The Collection's Passionate Chypre. PHOTO: BOSS FRAGRANCES Treat yourself to a scent and a sip at Boss Fragrances' latest pop-up. From July 26 to 31 at Paragon, explore Boss The Collection's 15 perfumes, designed as an olfactory wardrobe and said to each mirror a tailored piece from the German fashion brand. Available in 100ml as both Eau De Parfum ($330) and Eau De Intense ($390), the perfumes have names and scents like Sensual Geranium and Passionate Chypre. Personalise your purchase with free engraving by an on-site artist on selected days. All guests who register for the pop-up online will receive two complimentary vial samples of fragrances matched to their personal style, while stocks last. Boss The Collection's pop-up. PHOTO: BOSS FRAGRANCES If you prefer a blend you can drink, look forward to a live whisky cocktail bar at one end of the pop-up, in collaboration with scent-focused cocktail bar Luni. Mixologists will serve up cocktails inspired by ingredients from selected Boss The Collection fragrances, free for all purchasing visitors on July 27 and 31. The partnership continues after at Luni (01-12, 161 Lavender Street) from Aug 1 to Sept 7, where patrons who buy a drink ($28 each) from the collaborative menu will receive a complimentary vial of perfume. Info: Boss The Collection pop-up runs from July 26 to 31, 10am to 9pm, at Paragon Shopping Centre, 290 Orchard Road. Register at Decorte introduces Onjun facials Decorte's Onjun facial. PHOTO: DECORTE The luxury Japanese beauty brand has introduced four rituals under its concept Onjun, a word formed by two kanji characters: on, meaning warm or gentle, and jun, meaning circulation. Designed to repair and revive stressed skin, each treatment incorporates expert hand massage techniques that are said to promote lymphatic drainage, paired with Decorte's most luxurious range, the AQ Meliority. Get pampered in town, ensconced in the brand's facial cabins at either Takashimaya Department Store or Paragon Shopping Centre. The menu includes options for the time-strapped, such as the express Essential Ritual ($85 for 35 minutes) or Luxury Ritual ($120 for 45 minutes) that comes with a 48-step head massage. For more indulgence, there is the Ultimate Lift Ritual ($320 for 90 minutes), featuring an illuminating plaster mask and 88-step massage encompassing the head, face, chest and hand. Every facial includes a two-day Aftercare Skincare Kit of samples to help prolong and maintain the post-facial effects. While stocks last, enjoy a one-for-one trial package deal on any treatment. Info: Available at Decorte's counters at Takashimaya Department Store (Level 1) and Metro Paragon (Level 2).
Business Times
an hour ago
- Business Times
Europe car sales drop the most in 10 months as EV growth slows
[FRANKFURT] Automakers called for Europe to further stimulate demand for battery-powered vehicles after sales of all new cars fell in June by the most in 10 months. Registrations dropped 5.1 per cent to 1.2 million vehicles, the European Automobile Manufacturers' Association said on Thursday (Jul 24). While demand for battery-electric cars continues to rise, sales grew at the slowest pace this year. 'Consumers clearly remain cautious, and more robust demand measures will remain a crucial element to get the transition up to speed,' the trade group known as Acea said. Europe's carmakers can ill afford any slack in demand for electric vehicles (EVs) in their home market. Volkswagen, BMW and Mercedes-Benz Group all continue to lose ground in China, where increasingly competitive domestic manufacturers are squeezing both their volume and pricing. Other major players are dealing with tumult in top management, with Stellantis having recently named a new chief executive officer and Renault seeking a permanent CEO. The European Commission has somewhat eased the pressure carmakers are under by granting them a three-year window to hit stricter carbon dioxide emissions targets that had been set to take effect this year. For those manufacturers that operate in the US, however, President Donald Trump's tariffs on imported vehicles and parts have put billions of euros' worth of earnings at risk. BT in your inbox Start and end each day with the latest news stories and analyses delivered straight to your inbox. Sign Up Sign Up The biggest source of volume decline last month was Germany, the region's largest auto market. Registrations fell 14 per cent in June and were down 4.7 per cent in the first half of the year. Sales also slumped 17 per cent in Italy and 6.7 per cent in France last month. Across the region, plug-in hybrids remain a bright spot. Registrations jumped 38 per cent in June as buyers increasingly opt for models that combine electric driving with a backup combustion engine. Fully EV sales rose 14 per cent for the month, helped by new-model launches and lingering government incentives in some countries. Still, adoption rates remain uneven across Europe, reflecting patchy infrastructure and divergent national policies. The UK last week reintroduced grants of as much as £3,750 (S$6,496) to support EV purchases, three years after the previous government ended subsidies for private buyers. New-car sales in the country rose 6.7 per cent in June. BLOOMBERG
