Trump delays China visit, promises to praise Japan during upcoming stay

US President Donald Trump announced that his visit to China has been postponed by about one and a half months. 

He made the announcement during a meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi at the White House. Originally, the China trip was scheduled from March 31 to April 2.

Trump said he plans to praise Japan during his stay in China with President Xi Jinping, noting ongoing tensions between Beijing and Tokyo. In response, Takaichi emphasised that Japan remains open to dialogue with China.

The American leader also promised to learn Japanese before Takaichi’s next visit, joking: “I haven't picked up your language. The next time you come, I will have your language mastered.”

He also commended the Japanese leader for her strong command of English.

Takaichi’s visit marks her first to the United States as Prime Minister. The scheduled working lunch with Trump was cancelled to allow for an extended bilateral meeting instead, according to reports. 

By Jeyhun Aghazada