Recently, Chinese President Xi Jinping issued a significant warning to the United States regarding its support for Taiwan, emphasizing a “red line” that should not be crossed. During a pivotal meeting with President Joe Biden at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in Peru—just two months ahead of Donald Trump’s inauguration—Xi expressed China’s readiness to collaborate with the incoming administration.
This meeting occurred amidst rising concerns about potential trade conflicts and diplomatic strife, intensifying the existing tensions. China vehemently asserts that Taiwan is part of its territory, and it has not dismissed the idea of using force to reclaim it. Conversely, the US serves as Taiwan’s primary security ally, despite not formally recognizing its government.
According to state-run media CCTV, President Xi articulated four crucial “red lines” that he feels must remain unchallenged: Taiwan’s status, democracy versus authoritarianism, human rights, and national development interests. “The issue of Taiwan independence fundamentally disrupts both peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait,” he affirmed.
In a response, Taiwan’s foreign ministry pinpointed China’s ongoing military maneuvers near the island as the principal factor undermining regional stability and a significant threat to global economic health. Xi continued, urging that the US “should refrain from interfering in bilateral issues and should not endorse provocative actions” in the South China Sea, revealing Beijing’s broader concerns about US military presence in the region.
Looking back, Donald Trump’s administration was characterized by a tumultuous trade war against China, where hefty tariffs on billions in Chinese goods were met with retaliatory measures from Beijing. This year, China has intensified its assertive stance on territorial claims in disputed waters, despite facing pushback from neighboring countries and an international ruling stating its claims lack legitimacy.
Xinhua, the state news apparatus, reported that Xi described China’s stance on the Ukraine conflict as “transparent and principled,” while also promising that tensions on the Korean Peninsula would not “spiral into disruption or chaos.”
During a separate dialogue, Xi announced that China would take the helm for the next APEC summit in 2026, with ambitions of uniting Pacific nations to advocate for open trade cooperation and to reject protectionist tendencies.
In a bid for smoother relations with the US, President Xi conveyed a willingness to cooperate. “China is open to working with the new US administration to keep lines of communication active, broaden areas where we can cooperate, and manage our differences,” he told Biden via an interpreter. “It’s essential to ensure a smooth transition in our bilateral relations.” Yet, the specter of the past loomed large, as Trump had won the previous election with a platform echoing his aggressive trade tactics.
Xi underscored the necessity for both nations to “explore constructive ways to coexist.” He cautioned that misconceptions leading to a combative perspective can result in difficult moments or setbacks in diplomatic engagements, a sentiment echoed in Xinhua’s coverage. “Competition between major powers shouldn’t dictate our era,” he added, advocating against a “small yard, high fences” mentality.
In closing, Xi reaffirmed that “a stable relationship between China and the United States is vital not only for both countries but for global peace and prosperity.” Although he expressed aspirations for amicable relations, he firmly stated, “Our dedication to safeguarding our sovereignty, security, and development objectives remains unchanged,” as reported by Xinhua.
Edited by: Ali Musa
alimusa@axadletimes.com
Axadle international–Monitoring
