U.S. President Donald Trump said regarding the reciprocal tariff negotiations, "Many countries want to negotiate with us," and "I believe we can reach a very good agreement with China."
On the 17th (local time), Trump held a summit with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni at the White House. When asked by the media about the reciprocal tariff negotiations, he responded, "Negotiations are progressing well with all countries."
Trump noted, "Honestly, they (other countries) want to negotiate more than I do," and "I will listen to everyone and treat them fairly." Nevertheless, he emphasized, "It is we who decide the transaction."
U.S. Treasury Minister Scott Vasent said, "We are prioritizing negotiations with the 'Big 15' economies."
Minister Vasent remarked, "The meeting with Japan the previous day was fantastic, and I understand talks have also taken place with the EU. Korea is expected to attend next week, and India will come soon. The dialogue with India is also progressing very quickly."
When asked during a conversation with Prime Minister Meloni whether his thoughts on tariffs had changed, he responded, "No. Tariffs will make us rich," showing a firm stance.
Earlier, at a lunch with Prime Minister Meloni, when asked by reporters if he would call Chinese President Xi Jinping, Trump replied, "I believe we will reach a very good agreement with China."
In response to a question about whether he was concerned about President Xi's trip to three Southeast Asian countries to build alliances, he said, "No," adding, "No one can compete with us."
Regarding trade negotiations with the European Union (EU), he stated, "I think there will be a 100% trade agreement," and "We have what Europe or anyone else wants."
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Meloni announced that Trump has accepted the invitation for an official visit to Italy and will soon visit Rome.