Xi Presses Trump on Taiwan as Leaders Agree to Meet in China Next April

Trump and Xi, who previously met in Busan, South Korea, in October, reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining positive momentum in bilateral relations. Following that meeting, the two countries agreed on a temporary truce over tariffs, including halving a 20% US tariff aimed at reducing the flow of fentanyl. Tariffs on Chinese goods remain high, averaging just under 50%.

In a statement, China’s state news agency emphasized the need for both nations to “keep moving forward in the right direction on the basis of equality, respect, and mutual benefit.” Trump highlighted the progress in a Truth Social post, writing, “Our relationship with China is extremely strong!”

Key Discussion Points:

·         Trade and Tariffs: The one-hour call focused heavily on trade. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said both sides were pleased with recent developments, including the US withdrawal of a threat to impose 100% additional tariffs on Chinese goods, while China postponed rare earth export controls.

·         Taiwan: Xi reportedly stressed that Taiwan’s “return to China” is crucial to China’s vision for the post-war international order. Taiwan’s sovereignty has become a point of tension with Japan and the US. Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has warned that any Chinese attack on Taiwan could trigger a Japanese military response. US Ambassador to Japan, George Glass, reaffirmed American support for Tokyo amid growing Chinese pressure. Trump did not reference Taiwan in his public statements about the call.

·         Ukraine: The leaders also briefly discussed Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, signaling continued US-China dialogue on global security issues.

Analysts say the renewed communication between Trump and Xi reflects a delicate balancing act. While the US seeks stability on trade and geopolitical issues, China is using diplomacy to assert its regional ambitions, particularly regarding Taiwan.

The planned Trump visit to Beijing in April 2026 will mark another high-profile step in US-China diplomacy, with the world watching closely to see if the talks can translate into long-term cooperation—or if tensions over Taiwan, tariffs, and regional security will continue to dominate headlines.