Donald Trump sent a clear message to Taiwan, urging it not to proceed with a formal declaration of independence from China, just hours after concluding crucial talks in Beijing with Chi Jinping.
The U.S. president, in a televised interview with Fox News, made it clear that Washington‘s stance on the Taiwan issue remains unchanged, while tensions in the region continue to cause concern in the international community.
Donald Trump has stressed that the United States does not want any escalation with Peć, especially after Chi Jinping reportedly issued stern warnings during their contacts.
“We don’t want war” – Trump’s message on Taiwan
The US president appeared particularly careful in his remarks, noting that he did not want to give the impression that US support for Taiwan could lead the island’s government to unilateral moves towards independence.
“I don’t want anyone to think they can move to independence because the United States supports them,” Donald Trump said, attempting to send a message of de-escalation.
At the same time, he stressed that the US side is not seeking a military conflict with China, insisting that maintaining the current situation is considered the safest option for all sides.
“We are not looking for wars. I want to bring down tensions and calm,” he said, noting that he wanted to avoid moves that could cause a new crisis in the region.
He also revealed that he had an extensive conversation with Shi Jinping around the future of Taiwan, but did not clearly answer whether the US would intervene militarily in the event of a Chinese attack.
Chi Jinping’s warnings and the arms issue
According to Chinese state media, Chi Jinping reportedly made it clear to the US president that the Taiwan issue is the most critical point in relations between China and the United States.
The Chinese leader even warned that a mishandling could even lead to an open confrontation between the two superpowers.
The Peking still considers Taiwan an integral part of Chinese territory and constantly reiterates that it does not even rule out the use of military force to achieve reunification.
The issue of US arms to Taipei was also on the table. Donald Trump revealed that he has not yet made a final decision on the large arms sale package to Taiwan, worth about $11 billion in total.
This package includes advanced missile systems and rocket launchers, with the US president saying he wants to talk to the political leadership of Taiwan before deciding.
For its part, the government of Taipei has attempted to tone it down. Taiwan’s Vice Foreign Minister Chen Ming-chi said US arms sales are a key factor in maintaining peace and stability in the region.
At the same time, he stressed that contacts with Washington will continue in order to clarify what will eventually happen with the arms deals between the two sides.
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