U.S. President Donald Trump has suggested he might extend his ongoing Asia tour to include a meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, saying he “would love” to speak with him.
Trump departed for Japan on Monday, October 27, as part of his multi-nation trip across Asia — a tour that could also produce a major breakthrough with Chinese President Xi Jinping to end the prolonged U.S.–China trade war.
Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, the President expressed optimism about his upcoming meeting with President Xi, scheduled for Thursday, October 30, in South Korea. He also hinted that a surprise meeting with Kim could happen while he’s in the region.
“I have a lot of respect for President Xi, and we are going to, I think, come away with a deal,” Trump said during his flight from Malaysia, where earlier negotiations between U.S. and Chinese officials had raised hopes for progress.
Even before leaving Washington, Trump had fueled speculation about a possible encounter with the North Korean leader, saying he was “open” to meeting him.
“If he wants to meet, I’ll be in South Korea,” Trump stated.
The U.S. president is expected to arrive in Busan, South Korea, on Wednesday, October 29, ahead of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit, where he will also hold talks with South Korean President Lee Jae Myung.
South Korea’s Reunification Minister recently said there was a “considerable” chance that Trump and Kim could meet during the visit.
Meanwhile, Kim Jong Un has reportedly signaled his willingness to hold talks — but only if Washington relaxes its long-standing demand that North Korea dismantle its nuclear weapons program.
