BEIJING, Nov 24 - In a significant development, Chinese President Xi Jinping engaged in a phone conversation with U.S. President Donald Trump on Monday, where he emphasized that Taiwan's return to China is an essential aspect of the post-war international order, according to a report by state news agency Xinhua.
During the call, Xi reminded Trump of the historical ties that bind China and the United States, noting that both nations once joined forces against fascism and militarism. He expressed that the two countries should now collaborate to uphold the outcomes of World War Two. This call comes amid ongoing tensions and evolving diplomatic relations between the two global powers.
A White House official has confirmed that Trump and Xi spoke by phone, although specific details regarding the conversation were not disclosed. The discussion's timing is particularly crucial, given the backdrop of rising tensions regarding Taiwan.
China firmly regards Taiwan as part of its territory and has not ruled out the possibility of using force to exert control over the island. However, the Taiwanese government maintains that only its people can determine their future, rejecting Beijing's claims. This contentious issue remains a focal point in Sino-American relations.
The situation is further complicated by a significant diplomatic crisis between China and Japan. Recently, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi stated that a hypothetical Chinese attack on Taiwan could elicit a military response from Tokyo, heightening regional tensions and drawing international attention.
In recent months, Xi and Trump met in South Korea on October 30, following a period marked by escalating trade tensions triggered by Trump's tariff policies. Since that meeting, there have been signs of thawing relations: China has resumed its purchases of U.S. soybeans and has suspended its expanded restrictions on rare earth exports. Concurrently, the U.S. has reduced tariffs on Chinese goods by 10%.
President Xi noted that relations between China and the U.S. have stabilized and improved since their last meeting. He remarked, "The facts again show that cooperation benefits both sides while confrontation hurts both." Xi urged both countries to sustain this positive momentum and enhance cooperation across various sectors.
In addition to Taiwan, the leaders also addressed the ongoing war in Ukraine. Xi reiterated China's support for all efforts that foster peace and called on all parties involved to work towards narrowing their differences, emphasizing the need for diplomatic solutions in global conflicts.
This recent communication between Xi and Trump highlights the intricate web of international relations involving China, the U.S., and Taiwan, as well as the broader implications for global peace and stability.