President Donald Trump announced Tuesday that he is not pursuing a summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping but left the door open to a potential visit to China, stating he would only go “at the invitation of President Xi, which has been extended.”

Writing on his social media platform Truth Social, Trump emphasized that he has "no interest" in visiting China unless formally invited by Xi. The two leaders have not met face-to-face since Trump began his second term.

However, sources told Reuters that U.S. and Chinese officials have been in discreet discussions about the possibility of a bilateral meeting during Trump’s upcoming trip to Asia. A meeting could take place around the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit scheduled for October 30 to November 1 in South Korea.

Trump’s remarks come amid ongoing U.S.-China talks over a tariff truce, with both nations navigating a rocky path marked by rising security concerns and technology disputes. Analysts suggest that progress in the trade talks may determine whether a meeting with Xi is added to Trump’s Asia itinerary.

Aides from both sides are said to be exploring opportunities for either a formal summit or side meetings at regional events. If realized, it would mark a significant moment in U.S.-China relations, especially as both leaders seek to manage tensions over trade, Taiwan, and global security alignments.