China’s President Xi Jinping has warned the United States to exercise restraint in supplying weapons to Taiwan, calling the island the most sensitive and important issue in China–US relations. The message was delivered during a phone call with US President Donald Trump on Wednesday, a conversation that comes at a delicate moment for ties between the two powers.
Xi’s Message to Washington
According to China’s state media, Xi told Trump that Taiwan is “China’s territory” and that Beijing must safeguard its sovereignty and territorial integrity. He urged the US to handle arms sales to the self-governed island with “prudence,” while stressing that he attaches great importance to relations with Washington and hopes both sides can resolve differences through dialogue.
Trump’s Take on the Call
President Trump described the conversation as “excellent” and “long and thorough,” striking an optimistic tone. In a post on Truth Social, he said his personal relationship with Xi was “extremely good” and underlined the shared responsibility to keep US–China relations stable and constructive.
Trade and Economic Signals
Beyond security issues, the leaders discussed trade and economic cooperation. Trump revealed that Beijing is considering increasing its purchase of US soybeans to 20 million tonnes from the current 12 million, a move that could ease trade tensions and signal renewed economic engagement.
Global Issues on the Agenda
The phone call also covered a range of international challenges, including Russia’s war in Ukraine, the situation in Iran, fentanyl trafficking, and China’s purchase of oil and gas from the United States. The breadth of topics highlighted the global scope of US–China relations.
Diplomatic Engagement Intensifies
The exchange comes amid a flurry of visits by Western leaders, including UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, to China in recent months as governments seek to reset relations with the world’s second-largest economy. Trump himself is expected to visit China in April, a trip he said he is greatly looking forward to.
Arms Sales and Rising Friction
Tensions over Taiwan were sharpened in December when the Trump administration approved an arms sale to the island worth around $11bn, including advanced rocket launchers, self-propelled howitzers, and missile systems. Beijing condemned the move, warning it could push the Taiwan Strait toward a dangerous and violent situation.
Calls for Cooperation Amid Rivalry
In the latest call, Xi acknowledged that both countries have concerns and urged cooperation based on equality, respect, and mutual benefit. He suggested that working in the same direction could help address sensitive issues and prevent further escalation.
A Broader Geopolitical Backdrop
Hours before speaking with Trump, Xi also held a virtual meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, with both leaders praising the strengthening of ties between Beijing and Moscow, a reminder of the wider geopolitical dynamics shaping US–China relations.
