Editorial | More Trump-Xi summits can only be for the better
Shenzhen will host the next Apec meeting, where Trump and Xi might meet again. Such face-to-face talks are crucial stabilisers
Shenzhen’s development into a powerful innovation hub with a population of 18 million, in the face of a trade and tech war, speaks for itself. Its selection to host the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum is a major confidence booster for the Greater Bay Area, which is pivotal to Hong Kong’s future. Analysts say this also reflects Beijing’s “resolve to uphold openness”. Zhu Feng, executive dean of Nanjing University’s School of International Studies, says it demonstrates the integration of China’s development with the global economy under reform and opening up. The message could be amplified if US President Donald Trump attends the meeting.
To be sure, that followed many hours of intensive lead-up negotiations between senior officials, but the ultimate decision-makers are the two leaders. There is no substitute for direct communication between them.
Such face-to-face meetings are critical stabilisers for the world’s most important bilateral relationship, with mutual respect and understanding as the foundation. There is an argument that if the leaders of China and the United States could have more frequent meetings, there would be less chance of relations veering off script or being derailed by some unforeseen incident.