China says it keeps 'close communication' with US ahead of possible Trump-Xi meeting

China on Wednesday (October 22) said it was maintaining “close" exchanges and communication with the United States, after U.S. President Donald Trump hinted a meeting with his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping may not happen.

AI Brief

China highlights head-of-state diplomacy as key to US-China relations.
Trump is uncertain about meeting Xi but hopes for success.
Both leaders may meet at APEC in Seoul while trade disputes persist.

“Head-of-state diplomacy plays an irreplaceable strategic leading role in China-U.S.,” Guo Jiakun, the foreign ministry spokesperson said in a regular press briefing on Wednesday.

Trump said on Tuesday (October 21) he would have a "very successful meeting" with Xi but also caste doubt that "maybe it won't happen".

Both leaders are expected to meet on the sidelines of an economic conference - the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum - in Seoul next week.

Trade tensions between the U.S. and China, the world's two biggest economies, have lingered. Disputes over tariffs, technology and market access remain unresolved.