Chinese President Xi Jinping has issued a stern warning to US President Donald Trump, stating that mishandling the issue of self-ruled Taiwan could lead to direct conflict between the two superpowers.
During a high-stakes summit in Beijing, Xi emphasized that Taiwan remains the most sensitive and critical element of the bilateral relationship. According to state broadcaster CCTV, Xi told Trump that any mismanagement of the issue could push China-US relations into a "highly perilous situation."
"The Taiwan question is the most important issue in China-US relations," Xi reportedly stated. "If mishandled, the two nations could collide or even come into conflict."
Despite the tension over Taiwan, the leaders found common ground on global energy security. The White House confirmed that both Xi and Trump agreed on the vital necessity of keeping the Strait of Hormuz open to ensure the free flow of global energy supplies.
The discussions also touched upon regional dynamics, including expected peace talks between Lebanon and Israel in Washington following recent ceasefire violations.
The tone shifted during a state banquet held at the Great Hall of the People. Xi described Trump's visit as "historic," suggesting that China’s national rejuvenation and Trump’s "Make America Great Again" agenda could coexist.
"China and the United States stand to gain from cooperation and lose from confrontation," Xi said, raising a toast to his American counterpart. "Our two countries should be partners rather than rivals."
The summit took place in the ornate East Hall of the Great Hall of the People, a venue traditionally reserved for high-profile diplomacy. Earlier in the day, the two leaders visited the historic Temple of Heaven, signaling a mutual effort to maintain "generally stable" relations despite deep-seated disagreements over territorial sovereignty.
