Xi Jinping Urges Global Trade Unity: ‘Join Hands, Not Let Go’

Chinese President Xi Jinping delivered a powerful call for global cooperation at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum, urging nations to “join hands rather than letting go” of trade relationships. Speaking in Gyeongju, South Korea, on Friday, his address emphasized the need to protect global supply chains.
Xi warned against the dangers of “breaking supply chains” and advocated for nations to “actively seek more points of convergence of interests.” He stressed the importance of supporting open development and practicing “genuine multilateralism” among the member nations gathered at the summit.
This speech was Xi’s first public address since a pivotal meeting with US President Donald Trump. That meeting successfully de-escalated trade tensions, resulting in a significant one-year agreement focused on tariffs and critical materials.
The deal involves the US slashing some existing tariffs and export controls. In exchange, China has agreed to purchase US soybeans and, crucially, to pause any new curbs on the export of rare earths, which are vital for many high-tech industries.
President Trump described his meeting with Xi as “amazing,” while the Chinese leader remarked that “dialogue is always better than confrontation.” The two leaders also announced plans for future visits, with Trump scheduled to visit China in April and Xi to visit the US afterward.