Xi Jinping warns of conflict risk over Taiwan issue in China-US ties
Chinese leader Xi Jinping has said the stability of bilateral relations depends on how the Taiwan issue is handled, warning of the consequences of mismanagement
Taiwan remains the most sensitive issue in relations between China and United States, with both sides maintaining longstanding but competing positions over sovereignty, security, and diplomatic recognition.
Chinese leader Xi Jinping has said the stability of bilateral relations depends on how the Taiwan issue is handled, warning of the consequences of mismanagement, reports Reuters.
"If it is handled properly, the relationship between the two countries will remain generally stable. If it is not handled well, the two countries will collide or even conflict, pushing the entire Sino-US relationship into a very dangerous situation." — Xi Jinping, during a discussion with Donald Trump.
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At the core of tensions is the political status of Taiwan. Beijing maintains that Taiwan is part of its territory and has said that "Taiwan independence" is incompatible with peace in the Taiwan Strait.
"Taiwan independence" and peace in the Taiwan Strait are "incompatible." — Xi Jinping, as reported by the official news agency Xinhua.
Taiwan operates as a self-governed entity with its own military, currency, elected government and travel documents, but it is recognised diplomatically by only a small number of states.
Beijing has said it has not renounced the use of force in relation to Taiwan, while Washington provides what it describes as firm support to the island, including arms sales that China opposes.
"The US has repeatedly reaffirmed its clear position of firm support for Taiwan and the government is very grateful." — Michelle Lee, spokesperson for the Taiwan government's cabinet.
Since the United Nations seat for China was transferred from Taipei to Beijing in 1971, Taiwan's formal diplomatic recognition has declined. It currently maintains official relations with 12 countries, mostly small developing states, while many Western governments and US allies maintain unofficial ties through representative offices.
Public opinion in Taiwan, according to internal polling referenced in the source material, indicates most respondents prefer maintaining the current status quo rather than moving immediately toward formal independence or unification.
Taiwan's government has repeatedly expressed appreciation for continued US support despite the absence of formal diplomatic ties.
