China warns US after Trump signals talks with Taiwan President Lai: ‘Treat Taiwan issue with utmost caution’ | Today’s news
China on Thursday (May 21) reiterated its opposition to official exchanges between the United States and Taiwan after US President Donald Trump said he planned to speak with Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te.
Speaking to reporters at Joint Base Andrews, Maryland, before boarding Air Force One, Trump said, “I’m going to talk to him. I’m talking to everybody… We’re going to work on that, on the Taiwan issue.”
A direct conversation between the sitting US and Taiwanese presidents could further strain already strained US-China relations.
China says stance remains ‘clear and firm’
China’s foreign ministry said its disapproval of official US contacts with Taiwan remains unchanged.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Kuo Jiakun called on Washington to respect the “one China” principle and avoid actions that could destabilize relations.
“At the end of the day, attempts to seek independence by asking for foreign support or military means are nothing more than wishful thinking,” Guo said.
“China urges the United States to implement the important consensus reached during the meeting between the heads of state of China and the US, abide by its commitments and statements, and handle the Taiwan issue with utmost caution,” Guo said at a press conference.
He added that Washington should “stop sending bad signals” to Taiwan.
China considers Taiwan part of its territory and has never ruled out using force to bring the self-governing island under Beijing’s control.
No direct talks since 1979 diplomatic change
US and Taiwanese presidents have not spoken directly since Washington formally switched diplomatic recognition from Taipei to Beijing in 1979 under President Jimmy Carter.
Taiwan welcomes the possibility of Trump talks
Taiwan’s foreign ministry said Lai would like to speak with Trump.
Earlier on Wednesday, Lai said he would use the opportunity to emphasize Taiwan’s commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait.
“No country has the right to annex Taiwan,” Lai said.
He added: “The people of Taiwan are striving for a democratic and free way of life, and democracy and freedom should not be seen as a provocation.”
Lai accused China of undermining regional peace through a growing military buildup in the Indo-Pacific.
Trump is sending mixed signals to Taiwan
Trump has approved arms sales to Taiwan, but has also repeatedly praised his relationship with Chinese President Xi Jinping, calling it “wonderful.”
After his recent trip to Beijing, Trump said he had not yet decided whether to move forward with a proposed $14 billion arms package for Taiwan.
He called the possible deal a “very good bargaining chip.”
The remarks raised concerns in Taiwan about the consistency of US support for the island.
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Lai advocates continued support for US weapons
Halfway through his presidency, Lai stressed that strengthening Taiwan’s defenses was necessary to counter growing Chinese pressure.
“Only strength can bring peace,” Lai said.
He added that US arms purchases are essential to maintaining stability in the Taiwan Strait.
Lai also expressed hope for deeper cooperation between Taiwan, the United States and other democratic nations.
Xi Jinping warned Trump about Taiwan during the summit in Beijing
During a summit in Beijing last week, Xi warned Trump that Taiwan remains the most sensitive issue in US-China relations.
Xi Jinping is reported to have said that the two countries could face: “clashes and even conflicts” without a careful resolution of the Taiwan issue.
China strongly opposes US military support and diplomatic engagement with Taiwan.
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