Trump and Xi: Navigating Global Economic Tensions

US President Donald Trump is scheduled for a crucial meeting with Chinese leader Xi Jinping on Thursday, as the leaders of the world's two largest economies attempt to mend strained relations after months of trade tensions. Trump's aggressive tariff policies and China's export restrictions have heightened the urgency of the meeting.

In the lead-up to the summit, Trump's administration softened its stance by signaling that a previously threatened 100 per cent import tax on Chinese goods would not be implemented. Concurrently, China showed willingness to ease its export controls on rare earth elements and purchase American soybeans, indicating a potential thaw in relations.

However, despite the promising dialogue, the underlying geopolitical contest endures as both nations strive for dominance in global manufacturing and technological innovation. Experts emphasize that while the meeting may provide short-term stabilization, the long-term rivalry remains unresolved.