By Our Correspondent
National News – US President Donald Trump has stated that he is prepared to discuss US arms sales to Taiwan during his upcoming visit to Beijing, where he is scheduled to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping.
The talks, set for Wednesday to Friday, are expected to focus on trade relations, geopolitical tensions, and security issues in the Taiwan Strait.
Trump suggested that his personal relationship with Xi could help prevent any potential Chinese military action against Taiwan.
He also confirmed that major US business leaders, including Elon Musk and Apple CEO Tim Cook, will accompany him to strengthen economic engagement.
While Beijing reiterated its opposition to US arms sales to Taiwan, Taipei responded by reaffirming its commitment to defence cooperation with Washington.
The White House indicated that the visit comes amid ongoing trade negotiations between Washington and Beijing, with both sides seeking a temporary easing of tariff tensions.
The United States recently imposed new sanctions targeting individuals and entities involved in Iranian oil shipments to China, a move Beijing strongly opposed.
Officials from both countries are also expected to review broader economic cooperation frameworks during the visit.
Analysts say the outcome of the Trump-Xi meeting could influence global markets, especially in Asia, given the sensitivity of US-China relations.
Taiwan has urged continued US support, stressing the need for stronger deterrence capabilities to maintain peace in the region.
Meanwhile, China maintains that Taiwan remains a core sovereignty issue and opposes any foreign arms deals with the island.
Trump’s remarks underscore the delicate balance in US-China diplomacy as both nations navigate trade disputes, security concerns, and regional stability.
The meeting with Xi Jinping is expected to test whether personal diplomacy can ease long-standing tensions over Taiwan, which remains a flashpoint in global politics.
Observers say the outcome will be closely watched by allies and markets worldwide.
The visit marks the first US presidential trip to China since 2017, highlighting renewed engagement between the two powers.
It also comes amid heightened geopolitical scrutiny.
