WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping spoke by phone on Monday to discuss key issues like trade, the situation in Taiwan, and the Ukraine crisis, as confirmed by both the White House and Chinese officials. This call took place nearly a month after their meeting in South Korea.
Xi emphasized that Taiwan's return to mainland China is an integral part of the post-war international order. In a similar vein, a White House official acknowledged the call, although details were not disclosed. This discussion arises in the context of escalating tensions, notably after Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi indicated potential military involvement should China take action against Taiwan. Japan, a significant ally of the U.S., has seen its relations with China deteriorate further following Takaichi's remarks.
During the conversation, Xi mentioned that the U.S. and China, who once fought together against fascism, must protect the legacy of World War II. While the U.S. has not taken a definitive stance on Taiwan's sovereignty, it opposes any forceful takeover attempts and is committed by law to supply Taiwan with necessary defense equipment.
Earlier in October, the Trump administration authorized $330 million in arms sales to Taiwan, a move that China condemned as a violation of the one-China principle. In their call, the leaders also addressed trade, but specifics regarding any agreements were not revealed.
Reflecting a positive outlook, Xi noted that the bilateral relationship has largely maintained a steady and beneficial trajectory since their last summit, urging both sides to push for further advancements.
Xi emphasized that Taiwan's return to mainland China is an integral part of the post-war international order. In a similar vein, a White House official acknowledged the call, although details were not disclosed. This discussion arises in the context of escalating tensions, notably after Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi indicated potential military involvement should China take action against Taiwan. Japan, a significant ally of the U.S., has seen its relations with China deteriorate further following Takaichi's remarks.
During the conversation, Xi mentioned that the U.S. and China, who once fought together against fascism, must protect the legacy of World War II. While the U.S. has not taken a definitive stance on Taiwan's sovereignty, it opposes any forceful takeover attempts and is committed by law to supply Taiwan with necessary defense equipment.
Earlier in October, the Trump administration authorized $330 million in arms sales to Taiwan, a move that China condemned as a violation of the one-China principle. In their call, the leaders also addressed trade, but specifics regarding any agreements were not revealed.
Reflecting a positive outlook, Xi noted that the bilateral relationship has largely maintained a steady and beneficial trajectory since their last summit, urging both sides to push for further advancements.
