Japan to Arrange Takaichi-Trump Talks Late This Month Ahead of China-US Summit
Geopolitics
The Japanese government is coordinating talks between Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and President Donald Trump late this month, as Takaichi travels to New York to attend the United Nations General Assembly. Japan wants to discuss China-related issues amid concerns that the two superpowers may strengthen ties following a scheduled meeting between Xi Jinping and Trump in Washington on September 24. Sources say Japan places importance on this and has not predetermined the format of the talks. This effort stems from concerns that Trump might make concessions to China to build achievements ahead of the November midterm elections, which could affect Japan's security and economic interests. A Japanese government source said Takaichi should talk with Trump before he meets Xi Jinping. The latest schedule indicates Takaichi and Trump will make statements on September 22. If they cannot meet, Takaichi may hold phone talks around the time of the US-China summit, following a phone conversation with Trump immediately after his visit to China in May.
