[AP/Yonhap News Photo]
SINGAPORE -- As U.S President Donald Trump leaned forward to shake hands with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, the palm was faced up, beckoning for Kim's to be placed over his. At that moment, a symbol of compassion and understanding could be seen as the young leader has taken a bold step in efforts to negotiate a truce with the American leader.
Trump has been known for his signature arm-snatching handshake. The tender handshake with Kim lasted for 12 seconds, compared to the uncomfortable 26 seconds long handshake with Japanese Prime Minister Shinjo Abe in Washington in February 2017.
But his handshake with Kim can be seen as a tender one and probably a positive sign that the talks would deliver a promising outcome. For the long-awaited meeting at the Capella Hotel on the resort island of Sentosa Kim had arrived first aboard a bulletproof black Mercedes sedan to await Trump's arrival.
Shortly after, Trump arrived in his car dubbed "The beast", the two leaders showed up before journalists and exchanged some words before posing for the camera. They had serious faces and seemed to be eager for their face-to-face meeting that drew global attention.
A big smile can be seen on Trump's face which can be dictated as something different about his body language compared with meetings with other presidents. His body language demonstrated a positive and genuine discussion.
[AP / Yonhap Photo]
After a minute, Trump smiled and said, "Thank you. Thank you very much," before using his hands to direct the way for Kim to the hotel. They were seen standing along the walkway of the hotel and making small talk before adjourning to the meeting room. Cameras caught them exchanging smiles just before re-entering the hotel again.
When an all-clear signal was given, reporters rushed into the room where Kim and Trump were seated and ready to give their statements.
"I feel really great and that we're going to have a great discussion and I think with tremendous success. We will be tremendously successful, and it is my honor and that we will have a terrific relationship. I have no doubt," Trump said when asked how he was feeling.
When an interpreter translated Trump's words for Kim, huge smiles and a small chuckle could be seen and heard from the young leader. Kim replied in Korean that they were finally able to meet and talk by overcoming many prejudices and obstacles.
As Kim's words were translated, Trump nodded in affirmation and said, "That’s true." Trump then went forth and shook hands with Kim and gave him a thumb's up. Kim's face looked astonished at times, probably due to the overwhelming photography and press present.
The two then exited from the room and adjourned to another meeting room to have a one on one talk before they are joined by aides for an expanded meeting. After a meeting that lasted about 100 minutes, the two leaders had a hearty meal for their working lunch.
This story was contributed by Jazin Wee, an editorial assistant.
reporter
Lim Chang-won
cwlim34@ajunews.com
