Xi Informs Trump That the US Should Exercise Caution Regarding Arms Sales to Taiwan
Xi Jinping emphasizes that the US should proceed with caution regarding arms for Taiwan, highlighting the importance of sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the need to address differences with Washington.
China’s President Xi Jinping has cautioned US President Donald Trump regarding the provision of weapons to Taiwan, labeling the self-governed island as “China’s territory” and emphasizing it as “the most important issue” in China-US relations.
During an interview with state media after Wednesday’s phone call, Xi advised Trump, “The United States must approach the issue of arms sales to Taiwan with caution.”
“While the United States has its concerns, China, too, has its own,” Xi added. “When both parties collaborate with a commitment to equality, respect, and mutual benefit, we can undoubtedly discover solutions to address one another’s concerns.”
Trump characterized the call as “excellent” and “long and thorough,” highlighting plans for a visit to China in April, which he expressed he “very much looks forward to.” He also emphasized Beijing’s potential plan to buy 20 million tonnes of US soybeans, an increase from the current 12 million tonnes.
The leaders engaged in discussions regarding Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the circumstances in Iran, and China’s acquisitions of oil and gas from the US. Xi underscored that Beijing “must safeguard Taiwan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity” and highlighted the significance of addressing differences to ensure stable bilateral relations.
China has consistently vowed to “reunify” with Taiwan, even indicating the possibility of using force if required, while the US upholds formal relations with Beijing and continues to provide Taiwan with advanced military equipment. In December, the Trump administration authorized a $11 billion arms package for the island, eliciting strong condemnation from Beijing.
Xi’s conversation with Trump comes on the heels of recent visits from Western leaders aiming to bolster relations with China, such as UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. This call took place just hours after Xi’s virtual discussion with Russia’s Vladimir Putin, underscoring the strengthening connections between Beijing and Moscow.
