In his first public address since sealing a deal with President Donald Trump, Chinese President Xi Jinping warned Asia-Pacific leaders against “breaking supply chains.” Speaking at the APEC forum in South Korea, Xi championed a message of economic integration.
“We must adhere to the principle of joining hands rather than letting go, and extending rather than breaking supply chains,” Xi declared. He urged the member nations to practice “genuine multilateralism” and find common ground.
The speech followed a successful meeting with Trump that resulted in a one-year trade pact. The deal sees the US slashing some tariffs and export controls. In exchange, China agreed to buy US soybeans and pause new restrictions on rare earth minerals.
This pause on rare earths is a significant de-escalation, as Trump had previously threatened 100% tariffs on them. The deal also includes a one-year postponement of a US tech measure that would have blocked many Chinese firms from American technology.
The positive outcome was reflected in the leaders’ comments and plans. Trump called the meeting “amazing” and announced a visit to China in April. Xi, who noted dialogue’s superiority over confrontation, will visit the US later in the year.