During a recent phone conversation between Chinese President Xi Jinping and US President Joe Biden, the topic of Taiwan emerged as a critical issue. President Xi emphasized to President Biden that the Taiwan question represented the "first red line" for Beijing, stressing that the United States must refrain from crossing it. He also issued a warning that China would not idly stand by if "Taiwan independence" forces escalated their separatist activities with external support.
The dialogue between the two leaders took place on Tuesday, marking their first formal discussion since their historic face-to-face summit in San Francisco last November. This exchange reflects ongoing efforts by both US and Chinese officials to ease tensions between the two nations.
The White House described the conversation as "candid and constructive," covering a range of topics where both leaders found areas of agreement and disagreement. President Biden emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait while also expressing concerns about China's support for Russia's defense industry.
China's Foreign Ministry echoed the sentiment, stating that the leaders engaged in a "candid and in-depth exchange." President Xi acknowledged a stabilization in US-China relations but highlighted the emergence of "negative factors" requiring attention from both sides.
Of particular note was President Xi's assertion regarding Taiwan. He emphasized its significance as a red line in the relationship and urged the US to adhere to President Biden's commitment against supporting Taiwan independence.
The issue of Taiwan remains a contentious point between the two nations, with China considering it as part of its territory and vowing to reunify with it, even by force if necessary.
President Xi made it clear that China would not tolerate Taiwan independence activities, especially with external encouragement. He urged concrete actions from the US to align with President Biden's stance on the matter.
The upcoming inauguration of Taiwan's president-elect, William Lai Ching-te, drew attention during the discussion. Beijing has labeled him as a "troublemaker" and "separatist."
Trade and technology were also on the agenda. The US has implemented measures targeting China's trade and technology sectors, which China views as creating risks rather than reducing them.
President Xi conveyed that China remains open to mutually beneficial cooperation but warned against efforts to contain China's technological development, asserting China's right to development.
Strategic perception was emphasized as fundamental to the China-US relationship. President Xi stressed the importance of mutual respect, peaceful coexistence, and pursuing win-win cooperation to ensure stable and sustainable progress.
The ongoing engagement between the Biden administration and Beijing was highlighted, with Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen scheduled to visit China soon. Previous meetings between high-ranking officials underscore the commitment to dialogue between the two nations.
Overall, both leaders emphasized the importance of maintaining a stable and constructive relationship, avoiding conflict or confrontation, and striving for mutual respect and cooperation.
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