In a significant development for international diplomacy, former US President Donald Trump has expressed strong optimism regarding America's relationships with two key Asian powers, China and Japan. This positive outlook follows his recent telephone conversations with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi.
Warm Exchange with Chinese Leadership
Speaking to reporters while aboard Air Force One, Trump provided details about his discussion with President Xi Jinping. He revealed that the conversation heavily focused on trade matters, a long-standing point of discussion between Washington and Beijing. Trump stated that he specifically urged Xi to accelerate and increase China's purchases of American goods, particularly agricultural products from US farmers.
"I spoke to President Xi about a lot of things, trade and buying our farm products, and he said he agreed with me," Trump recounted. He expressed confidence that the Chinese leader would deliver positive results, adding, "He's going to -- I think he's going to very much surprise you on the upside... I asked him, I'd like you to buy it a little faster. I'd like you to buy more. He's more or less agreed to do that. I think we will be pleasantly surprised by the actions of President Xi."
Highlighting the personal rapport between the two leaders, Trump emphasized, "I have a great relationship with him. I like him. He likes me."
Strengthening Ties with Japan's New PM
Trump's diplomatic outreach also extended to Japan, where he held what he described as a "great talk" with the new Prime Minister, Sanae Takaichi. He praised the Japanese leader, noting her intelligence and strength. "We have a great relationship. The new Prime Minister, myself-- she's very smart, she's very strong, and she's going to be a great leader," Trump said.
Consolidating his view of the region's stability, he added, "I have a very good relationship with her. I also had a very good talk with President Xi of China, and I think that part of the world is doing fine." The US President also confirmed plans for a visit to China in April of the following year, which is expected to be joined by the Japanese PM.
Tangible Signs of a Thaw in US-China Trade
The positive tone from the phone calls was soon followed by concrete action. Hours after Trump's comments, reports emerged that China had placed a significant order for US soybeans. According to sources cited by Reuters, Beijing ordered at least 10 cargoes of American soybeans, with each shipment weighing between 60,000 and 65,000 tonnes. The total value of this purchase is estimated to be around $300 million.
This move is particularly notable as it occurred despite Brazil offering more competitive rates for its soybeans. China's decision to buy from the United States at a potentially higher cost is being viewed by analysts as a strong signal of improving relations and a potential thaw in the trade tensions that have characterized the relationship between the two global superpowers. The shipments are scheduled to begin their journey to China starting in January.
