rump Begins High-Stakes Asia Tour Targeting China Trade Deal

US President Donald Trump arrived in Malaysia on Sunday, beginning his Asian tour, the main goal of which is to normalize trade relations with China. This visit, Trump's first as president to Kuala Lumpur, was accompanied by both official pomp and displays of civil discontent. But that didn't stop him from dancing with those who greeted him at the airport.

At the heart of the visit are negotiations aimed at resolving the tense trade war between the world's two largest economies, the US and China. Although Trump's meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping is scheduled for South Korea, the negotiation process has already begun in the capital of Malaysia. Speaking to reporters on Air Force One, Trump expressed hope that he would be able to conclude a "comprehensive deal" with Xi Jinping. He stressed that he expects a constructive approach from China to avoid further 100 percent tariffs, which are scheduled to take effect on November 1. This statement adds additional tension to the negotiation process, emphasizing its urgency.

In addition to the China direction, Trump's tour may be marked by another important diplomatic event. Before leaving Washington, he did not rule out the possibility of meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un while on the Korean Peninsula, which could be the first since 2019. The president stated that he is "open to it," hinting at the possibility of resuming nuclear negotiations.

In Kuala Lumpur, Trump's plane was escorted by two Malaysian Air Force F-18 fighters upon landing. He was greeted with a red carpet, and the airport was decorated with Malaysian and US flags. A smiling Trump even joined the performers of a traditional welcome dance. However, in parallel with the warm official reception, a small group of protesters had gathered in other parts of the city. They expressed their dissatisfaction with posters reading "Trump, you are not welcome" and "Make reason great again," showing that the US president's visit is not perceived unambiguously by Malaysian society.