Trump to Lee: "We Are Friends, Contact Me Anytime if You Face Difficulties"... Also Invites Him to the White House

A Dramatic Shift from Tough Tariff Rhetoric
Consistently Positive Tone Throughout Opening Remarks

During the Korea-U.S. summit with President Lee Jaemyung on the 29th, U.S. President Donald Trump emphasized the trust and friendship between the two leaders, saying, "If you ever face difficulties, feel free to contact me at any time." Throughout his opening remarks, President Trump maintained a gentle and positive tone, creating a warm atmosphere that stood in stark contrast to his previously tough rhetoric regarding tariffs.

"Negotiations Are Supposed to Be Tough, But We Are Friends"... Trump Shows Deep Bond Throughout His Visit to Korea

President Lee Jae-myung shakes hands with former U.S. President Donald Trump after presenting him with a 'Cheonmachong Gold Crown Replica' at the Gyeongju Museum in Gyeongbuk on the 29th. Photo by the Presidential Office Press Photographers Group, Yonhap News Agency

President Trump set a relaxed tone during his opening remarks with his characteristic humor and friendly manner. This was in sharp contrast to his recent tough demands for a full upfront cash investment of 350 billion dollars as part of a trade agreement with Korea, drawing attention to the dramatic difference in approach.

He complimented President Lee, saying, "I saw a photo we took together a long time ago, and you look even better now. You must be doing something right." Regarding the negotiation teams from both countries, he commented, "They are very tough negotiators," but added, "That's only natural." He continued, "We are working together. There is great love among our communities, our people, and our leaders. And we are all friends," he emphasized.

Praise for Korean Hospitality: "Absolutely Perfect, Unforgettable"

President Lee Jae-myung is greeting U.S. President Donald Trump, who arrived at the Gyeongju Museum in Gyeongbuk on the 29th for the Korea-U.S. summit meeting. Photo by Yonhap News Agency

President Trump repeatedly expressed his deep gratitude for the hospitality shown by the Korean side. He said, "This is not just a compliment to me personally, but a great compliment to our country (the United States). However, I want to direct this compliment to you." He also praised the welcoming events he witnessed while traveling in the presidential state car, "The Beast." "It was absolutely perfect and executed flawlessly," he said. "I can speak on behalf of my entire cabinet and everyone who accompanied me. We have never seen anything like it before." He added, "It was a very special welcome, and it will be remembered."

"If Lee Achieves Peace on the Korean Peninsula, He Will Be Remembered as the Greatest President in History"

President Trump stated that while President Lee is already an excellent president, if he succeeds in resolving issues on the Korean Peninsula, "he will be remembered as the greatest president in history," and suggested they work together toward this goal. "You are already a great president. And if we accomplish this together, you will be recorded as the greatest president in history," he said. "We will work to make that happen. Thank you very much," he added.

After the Korea-U.S. summit, President Trump once again expressed his gratitude for Korea’s exceptional hospitality during the "Special Presidential Banquet" hosted by President Lee Jaemyung. "You truly rolled out a wonderful red carpet and gave me the honor of receiving a magnificent work of art," he said. "It was truly special to become the first U.S. president to receive such a gift." He reiterated, "I am very grateful and will never forget this visit." It was also reported that President Trump told President Lee, "If you ever face difficulties, contact me anytime," and expressed his willingness to invite him to the White House.

The Korea-U.S. summit began at approximately 2:39 p.m. and lasted about one hour and thirty minutes, ending at 4:06 p.m. A "Peace Lily," symbolizing peace, was placed in the meeting room to honor President Trump's efforts to resolve global conflicts.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.