Taiwan Voices Serious Concerns Amid US-China Summit Discussions

At the upcoming high-level talks in Beijing between US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping, Taiwan is paying close attention. Despite the absence of formal diplomatic relations between the US and Taiwan, strong unofficial ties prompt Taiwanese leadership to carefully analyze this visit and Trump’s recent remarks. In an interview with Fox News, President Trump clarified that the US does not seek war. He stated that as long as the current status quo is maintained, China is likely to be satisfied, and no one should unilaterally declare independence based solely on the assumption of American support. Trump emphasized, “I don’t want to see anyone become independent. You know, we’d have to travel 9,500 miles for a war—I am not looking for that kind of situation. I want them to keep the peace, and for China to remain calm as well. We don’t want war, and if the current situation continues, I believe China will be satisfied. But I don’t want anyone to say, ‘America is backing us, so let’s declare independence.’”

Responding to Trump’s remarks, Taiwan’s Deputy Foreign Minister, Chen Ming-chin, stated on Saturday that Taiwan requires further clarity to fully understand the implications of those comments. He added that US law permits arms sales to Taiwan, and the arms agreements between Taiwan and the US have consistently served as a cornerstone for regional peace and stability. According to Reuters, President Lai’s spokesperson also reaffirmed that US arms sales are part of America’s security commitment to Taiwan and help bolster shared resistance against regional aggression. Taiwan’s Foreign Minister, Joseph Wu (Lin Chia-lung), informed that his team is closely monitoring the US-China summit and maintaining strong communication with the US and other allied nations.

The Taiwanese officials highlighted that Taiwan has always been a guardian of peace and stability in the region, accusing China’s aggressive military actions and authoritarian repression of increasing regional threats. The majority of Taiwanese citizens prefer maintaining the current status quo in their relationship with China. Previously, China reacted strongly to perceived softening in America’s stance on Taiwan’s independence. In February 2025, China expressed sharp objections after the US Department of State removed its longstanding pledge opposing Taiwanese independence from its official website.