Trump Faces Xi’s Strong Warning on Taiwan During China Visit

Chinese President Xi Jinping raised the issue of Taiwan during President Donald Trump’s visit to China on Thursday, emphasizing its central role in U.S.-China relations.

"The Taiwan question is the most important issue in China-U.S. relations," Xi stated. "‘Taiwan independence’ and cross-Strait peace are as irreconcilable as fire and water. Safeguarding peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait is the biggest common denominator between China and the U.S."

The remarks cast a shadow over the U.S.-China summit, which Trump had described as potentially "the best summit ever." The meeting aimed to strengthen trade ties, with executives from major U.S. companies accompanying the president.

Xi warned of severe consequences if the issue is mishandled: "If handled poorly, the two countries will collide or even clash, putting the entire U.S.-China relationship in an extremely dangerous situation."

Trump avoided direct comments on Taiwan during his public statements, instead praising China’s beauty. The White House’s official readout of the meeting made no mention of Taiwan.

"President Trump had a good meeting with President Xi of China," a White House official said. "The two sides discussed ways to enhance economic cooperation between our two countries, including expanding market access for American businesses into China and increasing Chinese investment into our industries. Leaders from many of the United States’ largest companies joined a portion of the meeting."

The administration’s silence on Taiwan follows a December 2017 U.S. arms deal with Taiwan worth $11 billion, which China condemned. The deal included F-16 fighter jets and other military equipment. China has never ruled out the use of force to reunify Taiwan with the mainland.

Public opinion in Taiwan remains firmly against unification or declaring independence, with most residents preferring the status quo. Analysts question how Trump would respond if Xi Jinping escalates pressure on the island.