President Donald Trump has embarked on a weeklong trip to Asia, with a primary focus on securing a trade deal with Chinese President Xi Jinping. The visit, which began in Malaysia, is intended to address ongoing trade tensions between the U.S. and China. Trump arrived in Kuala Lumpur shortly after 10 a.m. local time on Sunday. Upon his arrival, Trump announced plans to meet with Thailand's Prime Minister and sign a peace agreement between Thailand and Cambodia. He expressed condolences for the recent passing of Thailand's Queen Mother Sirikit. During his trip, Trump is expected to engage with several Asian leaders at the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) summit. He will also hold a bilateral meeting with Malaysia's Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. The highlight of Trump's trip will be his meeting with Xi in South Korea on Thursday, the final day of his tour. U.S.-China relations have seen some improvement this summer, with reduced tariffs and ongoing trade discussions. However, tensions escalated recently when China announced stricter export controls on rare earth minerals, which the Trump administration views as a significant threat to global manufacturing. Trump's economic advisers have labeled these export controls as "economic coercion" and "extortion." In response, Trump has threatened to impose an additional 100% tariff on Chinese imports if negotiations with Xi do not yield favorable results. Despite these challenges, Trump remains optimistic about reaching a deal, stating, "I expect to be able to make it a good deal." He also indicated that discussions would include China's purchase of American soybeans and nuclear issues. Following Malaysia, Trump will travel to Japan to meet with the newly elected Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, the first female leader of Japan. Although the U.S. and Japan have already established a trade agreement, the two leaders will emphasize their partnership during this meeting. On Wednesday, Trump will attend the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit in South Korea, where he will meet with the South Korean president and deliver keynote remarks. This visit comes amid recent tensions between the U.S. and South Korea, following the deportation of over 400 South Korean workers from a Hyundai plant in Georgia. Trump's trip also coincides with a prolonged government shutdown in the U.S., which has left many federal workers without pay. Despite the domestic turmoil, Trump has maintained a business-as-usual approach, continuing with his international engagements. As he travels, Trump is expected to discuss various topics, including the U.S. sanctions on Russian oil companies and their impact on China's oil purchases. He has indicated that China is reducing its future purchases of Russian oil in light of these sanctions. In summary, Trump's Asia tour aims to strengthen trade relations and address geopolitical issues while navigating the complexities of U.S. domestic politics. His meetings with key leaders, particularly Xi, will be closely watched as they could shape the future of U.S.-China relations and global trade dynamics.