Taiwan Issue Tops Agenda for Upcoming Trump-Xi Summit in Beijing

U.S. President Donald Trump will travel to Beijing next month for a summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping, where Taiwan will be a key agenda item, according to reports. This marks a change from their meeting in South Korea last year, where the Taiwan issue was not prioritized.

The United States adheres to a 'one China policy,' acknowledging but not accepting China's claim over Taiwan, and states it does not support Taiwan's independence while assisting with its self-defense. Trump administration officials have stated there has been no change in U.S. policy on Taiwan and have condemned China's pressure on the island.

They noted that Trump has approved more weapons sales to Taiwan in over a year of his second term than his predecessor did during an entire presidency. At a 2024 summit with the former U.S. president, Xi Jinping requested a change in U.S. language on Taiwan to 'we oppose Taiwan independence,' but the U.S. declined.

People involved in preparations for the upcoming summit reported that China has sent similar signals at a working level.

Taiwan rejects Beijing's sovereignty claims.

Officials in Taiwan are monitoring the summit for any changes in U.S. positions on Taiwan Strait issues. A deputy minister at Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council stated that Taiwan will intensify policy communications with the U.S. ahead of the meeting. Taiwan Foreign Ministry spokesperson said the Trump administration has reaffirmed its support for Taiwan since taking office.