U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping held a summit in Beijing, confirming their commitment to stabilizing U.S.-China relations and expanding economic and trade cooperation. However, Xi emphasized that the Taiwan issue remains a critical concern in U.S.-China relations, urging the U.S. to respond cautiously.
On May 14, the Chinese Foreign Ministry released details of the summit held at the Great Hall of the People. Xi highlighted the need for both nations to overcome the so-called "Thucydides Trap," which refers to the potential conflict between established and rising powers. He expressed a desire to steer the "great ship of U.S.-China relations" toward making 2026 a historic and symbolic year that builds on the past while opening up the future.
Xi stated, "President Trump and I have agreed to establish a 'constructive strategic stable relationship' as a new direction for U.S.-China relations." He added that this would provide strategic guidance for the next three years and beyond, which he believes will be welcomed by both nations' citizens and the international community.
He further explained that constructive strategic stability should focus on active cooperation, moderated competition, and manageable differences, emphasizing that it should not just be a slogan but a commitment to action.
Regarding economic and trade relations, Xi described the essence of U.S.-China ties as mutually beneficial and win-win, asserting that equal negotiations are the only correct choice when faced with disagreements and friction. He noted that the economic and trade teams from both countries had achieved balanced and positive results, calling it good news for both nations and the world. He affirmed that China's doors to openness would continue to widen and welcomed U.S. companies' deep participation in China's reform and opening-up efforts.
Xi Issues Warning on Taiwan Issue
However, Xi issued a strong warning regarding Taiwan, stating, "The Taiwan issue is the most important issue in U.S.-China relations. If handled well, it can maintain overall stability in bilateral relations, but if mishandled, it could lead to conflict or even disputes." He emphasized that "Taiwan independence" and peace in the Taiwan Strait cannot coexist, urging the U.S. to handle the Taiwan issue with utmost caution.
During the summit, Trump expressed his honor in visiting China, stating, "U.S.-China relations are very good. I have built the longest and best relationship between U.S. and Chinese leaders in history, maintaining friendly communication and resolving many important issues." He praised Xi as a great leader and acknowledged China as a great nation, expressing deep respect for Xi and the Chinese people.
Trump described the meeting as significant, stating, "I want to strengthen communication and cooperation with President Xi and properly resolve differences to open the best U.S.-China relationship in history and pave the way for a more beautiful future for both countries." He also mentioned the presence of prominent American business representatives accompanying him, stating, "All of them respect and value China greatly, and I encourage them to actively expand cooperation with China."
The Chinese Foreign Ministry reported that the two leaders exchanged views on major international and regional issues, including the situation in the Middle East, the Ukraine crisis, and the Korean Peninsula. They agreed to support each other for the successful hosting of the upcoming Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit and the G20 summit.
* This article has been translated by AI.
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.