WASHINGTON: U.S. President Donald Trump is set to embark on a high-stakes trip to Asia this week, with the world watching closely for an anticipated meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping — a potential turning point for the global economy and international diplomacy.
Speaking from the White House on Wednesday, Trump described his upcoming journey as a “big trip” that will take him to Malaysia, Japan, and South Korea — his first major foray into the region since returning to the Oval Office. The trip, coming amid escalating trade disputes, shifting security alliances, and a volatile geopolitical landscape, is being seen as an attempt to reassert American influence in Asia.
However, much of Trump’s itinerary remains uncertain. The White House has released few details, and even Trump himself has cautioned that his much-hyped meeting with Xi in South Korea might not take place, citing “ongoing tensions” and “unresolved issues.”
Despite the uncertainty, Trump has been vocal about his hopes to secure what he calls a “good deal” with Beijing to end the protracted U.S.–China trade war — a conflict that has rattled markets, disrupted supply chains, and strained relations between the world’s two largest economies.
Meanwhile, host nations across Asia are preparing elaborate receptions for the often unpredictable 79-year-old leader, eager to stay on his good side and secure favorable deals on trade, investment, and security cooperation.
Stop One: Malaysia and the ASEAN Summit
Trump’s first stop will be Malaysia, where he will attend the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) summit from October 26–28 — a forum he notably skipped several times during his first term. His renewed engagement is being viewed as an effort to counterbalance China’s growing regional influence and to restore U.S. credibility among Southeast Asian partners.
According to Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, Trump is expected to finalize a bilateral trade agreement with Malaysia and to witness the signing of a peace accord between Thailand and Cambodia, an initiative Trump has reportedly championed as part of his broader push for what he calls “peace through strength.”
“President Trump is keen to see positive results from the ongoing peace negotiations between Thailand and Cambodia,” Anwar said Wednesday, framing the development as a “step forward for regional stability.”
In a surprise addition to his schedule, Trump may also meet Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva on the sidelines of the summit, as both countries seek to reset relations after months of tension over environmental policy, trade disputes, and political differences.
Stop Two: Japan and New Alliances
From Malaysia, Trump will travel to Tokyo, where he will meet Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, Japan’s first woman leader and a conservative politician seen as ideologically aligned with Trump on national security and economic nationalism.
Japan has largely been spared from the harshest U.S. tariffs that Trump imposed globally to address what he calls “unfair trade practices ripping off the United States.” However, Washington continues to pressure Tokyo to curb its energy imports from Russia and to boost defense spending in alignment with Western allies’ expectations amid mounting regional threats.
Observers say Trump’s visit offers both sides a chance to recalibrate their partnership in light of China’s assertiveness in the South China Sea and North Korea’s ongoing missile provocations.
Stop Three: South Korea and the Xi Meeting
The centerpiece of Trump’s Asia tour will likely be his visit to South Korea for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit, scheduled for October 29. Here, all eyes are on the possible — though still unconfirmed — meeting between Trump and Xi Jinping.
It would mark their first face-to-face encounter since Trump’s return to power and could reshape the trajectory of U.S.–China relations. A successful meeting might pave the way for easing tariffs, reopening investment channels, and stabilizing global supply chains. Yet tensions remain high: Beijing’s curbs on rare earth exports have infuriated Washington, while Trump’s administration recently imposed fresh tariffs on Chinese goods in response.
After briefly threatening to cancel the meeting, Trump later said it would “probably happen,” though he added, “maybe it won’t.” He also told reporters that he hopes to strike a deal with Xi on “everything,” from trade to regional stability — and even hinted that Xi could play a “big influence” in persuading Russian President Vladimir Putin to end the war in Ukraine.
However, analysts warn that expectations should remain modest.
“The meeting will be a data point along an existing continuum rather than an inflection point in the relationship,” said Ryan Hass, a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution.
In a symbolic gesture, South Korea is reportedly considering awarding Trump the Grand Order of Mugunghwa, the country’s highest honor, in recognition of his “contributions to peace and alliance-building.”
North Korea Looms Large
No trip to the Korean Peninsula would be complete without the North Korea question. Pyongyang launched multiple ballistic missiles this week — a pointed reminder of the unresolved nuclear threat just days before Trump’s arrival.
Trump, who met North Korean leader Kim Jong Un several times during his first term, has expressed interest in rekindling dialogue, saying he remains open to another face-to-face meeting “if it helps bring stability to the region.” However, U.S. officials have not confirmed any plans for such talks during this trip.
A Test of Diplomacy and Discipline
Trump’s Asia visit comes at a time when global leadership appears fractured, and Washington’s traditional allies are reassessing their ties amid rising Chinese and Russian assertiveness. For Trump, the tour represents both a diplomatic test and an opportunity to showcase his dealmaking prowess on the international stage — a theme he is expected to highlight heavily in the lead-up to the 2026 election.
Whether Trump’s unpredictable diplomacy will lead to concrete breakthroughs or more geopolitical turbulence remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: as Air Force One heads east, the world will be watching closely.
Support Dawat Media Center
If there were ever a time to join us, it is now. Every contribution, however big or small, powers our journalism and sustains our future. Support the Dawat Media Center from as little as $/€10 – it only takes a minute. If you can, please consider supporting us with a regular amount each month. Thank you
DNB Bank AC # 0530 2294668
Account for international payments: NO15 0530 2294 668
Vipps: #557320
Support Dawat Media Center
If there were ever a time to join us, it is now. Every contribution, however big or small, powers our journalism and sustains our future. Support the Dawat Media Center from as little as $/€10 – it only takes a minute. If you can, please consider supporting us with a regular amount each month. Thank you
DNB Bank AC # 0530 2294668
Account for international payments: NO15 0530 2294 668
Vipps: #557320
Comments are closed.