While flying back to Washington on Air Force One after the meeting, Trump told reporters it was a "great success" and said he would head to China in April for new talks.

The agreement, which Trump provided few details about except that it would probably be extended, would "settle" the issue, he said.

Trump had expressed optimism about this meeting as recently as yesterday, but when asked by a reporter if he thought there would be a signed deal today, his reply was only "could be".