Part 9/15:
In a gesture reflecting continuity of diplomatic tradition, Takayuchi gifted Trump a golf putter used by former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, symbolizing ongoing trust and friendship. This diplomatic relationship, built partly through personal connections, is a strategic asset in countering China's influence.
Gyongju: The Final Chapter and the Critical Chinese Encounter
The trip’s culmination will be at Gyongju, South Korea, where Trump is scheduled for the APEC summit. Here, he will hold a crucial bilateral meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping—the first face-to-face encounter since Trump’s return to office. This meeting is anticipated to be the most consequential of the trip, given the escalating tensions and intricate negotiations over trade and security.