These meetings come in the wake of a delicate trade accord with U.S. President Donald Trump, under which Washington has agreed to suspend further restrictions on Chinese exports of rare earth metals—a move aimed at avoiding disruptions to global supply chains.
The theme of this year’s APEC summit is “Strengthening Supply Chain Resilience,” hosted in the historic city of Gyeongju. The 21-member economic forum seeks to promote cooperation and reduce trade and investment barriers, though its resolutions are non-binding and achieving consensus has become increasingly difficult in today’s divided global climate.
Addressing the session, President Xi emphasized that “the stormier the global environment becomes, the more we must work together,” underscoring the need to protect the multilateral trading system and deepen economic cooperation. U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bassett attended the meeting in place of the absent President Trump.
Xi’s first meeting with Japan’s new hardline leader, Sanae Takaichi, is considered particularly significant. The two leaders are expected to discuss trade, regional security, and China’s growing military influence. Analysts suggest that Japan’s new nationalist agenda and its assertive defense policies could add strain to Sino-Japanese relations.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney will also meet with Xi in an effort to restore and strengthen bilateral ties with China. Additionally, Thailand’s Prime Minister is scheduled to hold talks with the Chinese leader.
According to South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Hyun, efforts are underway to issue a joint communiqué at the end of the summit, though its detailed nature remains uncertain given the current geopolitical divisions.
This meeting is widely regarded as a pivotal moment for global trade, regional security, and economic diplomacy, offering a glimpse into how major powers navigate cooperation amid competition in an increasingly fragmented world.
