FirstFT: Trump meets Xi for high-stakes summit

Former U.S. President Donald Trump met with Chinese President Xi Jinping in a high-stakes summit aimed at addressing escalating tensions between the two countries. The meeting, held in a neutral location, focused on key issues including trade disputes, technology competition, and regional security concerns. Both leaders emphasized the importance of dialogue to prevent further deterioration in bilateral relations. The summit marked a rare direct engagement between Trump and Xi since Trump left office, signaling a potential shift in the approach to U.S.-China relations. Discussions reportedly covered contentious topics such as tariffs, intellectual property rights, and military activities in the South China Sea. Analysts view the meeting as an attempt to stabilize economic ties and manage geopolitical risks amid growing rivalry. This encounter comes at a time when both nations face internal and external pressures: the U.S. grapples with inflation and political divisions, while China confronts economic slowdowns and international criticism over its policies. The outcome of the talks could influence global markets and diplomatic alignments, given the central role both countries play in the world economy and security architecture. Experts suggest that while immediate breakthroughs are unlikely, the dialogue sets a foundation for future negotiations and confidence-building measures. The summit underscores the ongoing complexity of U.S.-China relations and the need for continued engagement to avoid conflict and promote cooperation on global challenges such as climate change and public health.