Progress in China–U.S. summit, but Taiwan issue triggers strong warning

International Desk: PNN

China and the United States are making progress in ongoing trade talks, said Chinese President Xi Jinping. However, he also warned that if disagreements over Taiwan are not properly managed, relations between the two countries could take a dangerous turn and even lead to conflict.

He made these remarks during the opening of a two-day summit in Beijing with U.S. President Donald Trump on Thursday. According to China’s foreign ministry, the two leaders held a meeting lasting more than two hours.

On the issue of Taiwan, which China claims as a self-governing territory, Xi Jinping took a firm stance. Although the U.S. summary did not mention Taiwan, it highlighted progress in trade and regional security discussions.

Xi said that since the October trade truce, economic discussions between the two countries have made “overall positive and balanced progress.” Both sides also agreed to continue discussions to expand trade and investment.

Xi described Taiwan as the most important and sensitive issue in bilateral relations, warning that mistakes in handling it could make the situation extremely dangerous and potentially lead to conflict.

Trump said during the meeting that it could be “one of the biggest summits ever.” The two leaders later participated in formal events including visits to historic sites in Beijing and a banquet.

The discussions also covered trade, agricultural cooperation, Middle East affairs, Ukraine, and the Korean Peninsula. Expansion of U.S. companies’ access to the Chinese market and increased Chinese investment were also discussed.

Analysts say the meeting sends important signals about the future of global economic relations, Middle East crises, and Taiwan tensions.