Trump Seeks $350 Billion Investment from South korea Amidst Trade Deal Uncertainty
SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA – President Donald Trump arrived in South Korea on Wednesday seeking a considerable $350 billion investment from the nation, but a comprehensive trade deal remained elusive as he addressed immigration concerns and geopolitical tensions during his visit. The push for investment comes as the U.S. and South Korea navigate complex economic and security interests, with Trump signaling a willingness to address visa programs to facilitate skilled labor access for American industrial projects.
While a formal trade agreement didn’t materialize upon his arrival, Trump highlighted an agreement reached in early October allowing South Korean workers to enter the U.S. on short-term visas or through the visa waiver program to support construction at industrial sites. he stated, “I was opposed to getting them out,” and suggested improvements to the visa system could streamline the process for companies seeking skilled workers. This move underscores the management’s focus on bolstering domestic manufacturing and infrastructure growth.
The President’s trip also includes anticipated discussions with Chinese leader Xi jinping, where both sides have indicated a desire to de-escalate trade disputes.Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One he anticipates lowering tariffs on China related to the flow of fentanyl ingredients, stating, ”They’ll be doing what they can do,” and ”China is going to be working with me.”
Despite hopes for a diplomatic breakthrough, prospects for a meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un appear dim.Trump acknowledged a tight schedule prevented an extension of his stay, and North Korea has dismissed recent overtures from Washington and Seoul, demanding the U.S. abandon its denuclearization requirements.Pyongyang demonstrated its military capabilities Wednesday by firing sea-to-surface cruise missiles into its western waters, a move Trump downplayed, noting, “he’s been launching missiles for decades, right?”
Previous meetings between Trump and Kim during his first term did not yield a lasting agreement regarding North Korea’s nuclear program.The visit continues as the U.S. seeks to strengthen alliances and address pressing economic and security challenges in the Indo-Pacific region.
