By Our Correspondent

National News – Taiwan has reaffirmed that it is already a sovereign and independent nation after Donald Trump warned the island against making any formal declaration of independence from China.

The comments followed a two-day summit in Beijing between Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping, where tensions over Taiwan remained a major topic.

Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te, through presidential spokesperson Karen Kuo, stated on Saturday that Taiwan’s sovereignty was “self-evident.”

She stressed that the democratic island nation remains committed to maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait while preserving the current status quo with China.

The dispute resurfaced after Trump revealed he had discussed Taiwan extensively with Xi during the Beijing summit.

Trump said he was not seeking conflict with China and wanted both sides to “cool down.”

He also disclosed that the United States is considering whether to approve an $11bn arms package for Taiwan to strengthen the island’s self-defence capabilities.

China, which claims Taiwan as part of its territory, has repeatedly opposed any move toward Taiwanese independence and has increased military drills around the island in recent years.

Beijing has also criticised President Lai, describing him as a threat to cross-strait peace.

The United States officially recognises the “One China” policy but remains Taiwan’s strongest international supporter and is legally required to help the island defend itself.

Although Washington maintains unofficial relations with Taiwan, direct engagement between US presidents and Taiwanese leaders often sparks diplomatic tensions with Beijing.

Taiwanese authorities, however, insisted that cooperation with the US would continue in pursuit of regional peace, security and democratic stability in Asia.