FTSE China A50 index futures fell 1%.

South Korea's Blue House said on the 17th it expects relations between US and North Korean leaders could develop into a "meaningful" dialogue, paving the way for talks to advance peninsula peace and stability. Seoul said it will carry out necessary diplomatic efforts in close coordination with Washington. The office noted President Trump’s earlier social-media posts and said Seoul and Washington have maintained close coordination on joint military drills.

China A-share coal mining and beneficiation sector firmed in early trade; Wuchan Huaneng hit the daily limit, while Jiangwu Equipment, Huayang Co., Xinji Energy, Baotailong, Shaanxi Black Cat and Shaanxi Coal Industry also rallied.