US President Donald Trump arrived in Japan on Monday, the second stop of his Asian tour, in light of his optimism about reaching an agreement to end the sharp economic disputes with China, whose President Xi Jinping will meet on Thursday.
Trump confirmed on Monday that he would “very much like” to meet North Korean leader Kim Jong Un during his Asian tour.
“We will have very good talks” with Chinese President Xi Jinping, Trump said in an interview with reporters on board his plane, praising the “respectful” relationship that unites them.
Trump also expressed enthusiasm for his visit to Tokyo, where he is scheduled to meet with Emperor Naruhito on Monday evening and Prime Minister Sanae Takaishi.
He said he was “excited” to meet Takaishi, about whom he had heard “wonderful things,” and described her as a “great ally and friend” of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, with whom he had a close relationship.
Japan has remained relatively immune from the storm of tariffs imposed by Trump since he came to office, which affected Washington’s opponents and allies alike.
In statements he made to reporters on Air Force One on his way to Japan from Malaysia, the US President did not rule out extending the tour, which includes Japan on Monday and Tuesday and South Korea on Wednesday and Thursday, after he visited Malaysia on Sunday.
Trump said: “I will extend my trip to Asia if the President of North Korea wants to meet with me.”
