Xi presses Trump to take the next step on Taiwan: oppose independence

During a meeting on Thursday, Chinese President Xi Jinping urged US President Donald Trump to explicitly oppose Taiwan independence. According to a statement from Beijing's foreign ministry, Xi expressed hope that the US would "adhere to the correct position of opposing 'Taiwan independence'." Analysts suggest this call, if heeded, would represent a shift from Washington's established stance of "not supporting" independence and could lead to reduced American arms sales to Taiwan. This marks a continued effort by Beijing to secure a firmer political commitment from the US against Taiwan's independence. The White House had not yet released its account of this exchange.

During a visit to the United States, Chinese President Xi Jinping received a red carpet welcome but did not achieve all his objectives. Xi sought progress on trade, technology, and Taiwan, but secured less than anticipated. China's domestic economy faces challenges, with high youth unemployment and declining property prices, making exports crucial for growth and necessitating protection from U.S. tariffs. Xi reiterated China's stance that U.S. arms sales to Taiwan are a red line, warning of potential conflict. He likely used the opportunity to argue that reduced U.S. support for Taiwan mitigates conflict risk, urging the U.S. to oppose Taiwan's independence.