Once sidelined, China stands ready to broker a fourth Trump-Kim handshake

China is actively considering playing a central role in facilitating a potential meeting between US President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, as tensions on the Korean peninsula rise ahead of Chinese President Xi Jinping's upcoming visit to Washington. Sources reveal that Beijing is stepping up its efforts to broker a "credible" diplomatic effort and highlight its commitment to staying a key player in negotiations involving the Korean peninsula, despite Trump's attempts to reignite engagement with Pyongyang.

Beijing is reportedly open to supporting any initiative that could lead to resumed dialogue, but expects Kim to request significant concessions like sanctions relief and US recognition of North Korea's nuclear status before agreeing to another summit with Trump. China emphasizes that it will only push for a Trump-Kim meeting if it can ensure its interests are protected, and suggests that Pyongyang's strengthened ties with Russia have increased its diplomatic and military leverage, prompting Kim to demand more substantial benefits.

While North Korea has not publicly welcomed Trump's overtures, sources note that Pyongyang remains skeptical of the US's intentions, particularly regarding military exercises conducted near the border. Following three failed summits between Trump and Kim during his first term – the most recent being a meeting in the demilitarized zone in June 2019 – there have been calls for a resumption of high-level discussions.

A recent preparatory trip by an envoy to scout potential host cities in China, including Shenzhen and Hangzhou, has been reported, signaling renewed interest in the prospect of a meeting on the sidelines of the upcoming Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in November.