A renewed push has occurred in the US–China engagement. Consequence of a lengthy phone call between President Donald Trump and President Xi Jinping aimed at stabilising bilateral relations. Soon after, the United States confirmed it would take an active role in the first Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (Apec). Meetings that will take place in Guangzhou, signaling a stronger diplomatic and economic presence in the region.
The meetings also launch China’s Apec 2026 agenda, built around openness, innovation, and cooperation. It lays the groundwork for the Economic Leaders’ Meeting in Shenzhen later this year, which could provide another opportunity for Trump and Xi to meet. Although recent signals point to a more constructive tone, including the prospect of increased Chinese purchases of US agricultural products, tensions persist over sensitive issues such as Taiwan and US arms sales.
Overall, the developments show how Apec has become a central platform for economic diplomacy. A place where efforts to improve dialogue unfold alongside ongoing strategic rivalry between Washington and Beijing.
Reference
Razdan, K.(2026c, February 6). US steps up Apec role after Xi–Trump call as ties with China show signs of thaw. South China Morning Post. https://www.scmp.com/news/us/article/3342737/us-steps-apec-role-after-xi-trump-call-ties-china-show-signs-thaw?module=perpetual_scroll_0&pgtype=article