Summary

  • It was reported that the prospects for holding a three-way summit have become uncertain as the U.S. and China differ over the format of the talks and the agenda.
  • The Trump administration wants a freer discussion format and talks on nuclear arms control, while China prefers pre-coordinated remarks and an agreed outcome.
  • It was also reported that China has indicated it may prefer separate bilateral meetings instead of a three-way summit if the agenda cannot be agreed in advance.

Forecast Trend Report by Period

Prospects for a three-way summit next week involving U.S. President Donald Trump, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin have become uncertain, as Washington and Beijing remain at odds over the format and agenda, according to a report.

Walter Bloomberg reported on November 9 that China wants the talks to proceed with pre-arranged remarks and an agreed outcome, while the Trump administration favors a freer format for discussion.

Trump wants to discuss nuclear arms control at the meeting. China, however, remains reluctant to engage in negotiations that would limit the expansion of its nuclear arsenal.

China has also signaled that it may prefer separate bilateral meetings over a three-way summit if the agenda cannot be agreed in advance.

JH Kim