China’s Xi warns Trump of potential conflict over Taiwan

Chinese leader Xi Jinping warned U.S. President Donald Trump on Thursday that mishandling of the Beijing-claimed island of Taiwan could lead to clashes or conflict. Xi said that the issue of Taiwan was important for U.S.-China relations, according to a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman. If not dealt with properly, Taiwan could put the relationship of China and the United States in great jeopardy, Xi said.

The two leaders met for about two hours behind closed doors at the Great Hall of the People, which borders Tiananmen Square. Xi welcomed Trump with a ceremony that featured a military band playing both countries’ national anthems, booming cannons, and school children waving both nations’ flags.

The White House positively described the closed-door meeting with Xi. Trump and Xi discussed ways to enhance economic cooperation, including expanding opportunities for U.S. businesses in China and increasing Chinese investment in U.S. industries, according to a post from the White House. Additionally, both Trump and Xi remarked that the Strait of Hormuz, the international trade route clogged for much of the Iran War, needs to stay open for oil shipping.

What opening remarks did the two leaders give? They publicly praised each other in an initial meeting. Trump told Xi he was a great leader and it was an honor to be his friend. Xi emphasized that the two countries should be partners, rather than rivals as cooperation benefits both sides. He said he hoped their discussions would lead to a historic year for U.S.-China relations. Trump also invited Xi to visit the White House in September. 

Dig deeper: Read my report on Trump’s arrival in Beijing on Wednesday.