In a significant diplomatic exchange, US President-elect Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping spoke on Friday, just days before Trump’s inauguration. Their conversation covered trade, TikTok, and Taiwan, addressing key issues that could define Trump’s presidency and US-China relations.
Diplomatic Exchange and TikTok Controversy
According to China’s foreign ministry, the leaders discussed trade issues and the ongoing fentanyl crisis while touching on the controversy surrounding TikTok. This conversation came as the US Supreme Court upheld a law banning TikTok unless its China-based parent company, ByteDance, sells the app to a US-approved buyer.
Xi Jinping expressed optimism for improved relations under Trump’s leadership. “We value interaction and want a strong start to China-US relations during the new presidency,” Xi stated in Beijing’s official statement.
Tensions between the two nations have escalated in recent years, marked by economic competition, trade tariffs, and disputes over technology. Trump’s presidency is set to inherit these challenges, with the potential for further strained ties.
Diplomatic Moves Ahead of the Inauguration
Trump extended an unprecedented invitation to Xi to attend his inauguration. However, China’s foreign ministry announced that Vice President Han Zheng would represent Beijing as Xi’s special envoy. Notably, no Chinese president has ever attended a US presidential inauguration.
Simultaneously, Taiwan sent an eight-member delegation to Trump’s inauguration, signaling strengthened ties between the US and the self-governed island. Taiwan’s legislative speaker, Han Kuo-yu, emphasized the significance of this visit: “We bring the best wishes of 23 million Taiwanese to President Trump and Vice President Vance.”
During Joe Biden’s tenure, the US balanced relations with Taiwan to reduce tensions with China. However, high tariffs and restrictions on Chinese technology exports, including electric vehicles and solar panels, exacerbated the strained relationship.
Taiwan and Sovereignty Concerns
The Taiwan issue featured prominently in the Trump-Xi discussion. Xi urged Trump to approach Taiwan carefully, emphasizing its significance to China’s sovereignty. “Confrontation and conflict should not be options for our countries,” Xi warned.
Taiwan remains a contentious issue in US-China relations. While Beijing views Taiwan as part of its territory and has vowed to annex it if necessary, the US maintains a legal obligation to supply Taiwan with defense capabilities.
US-Taiwan relations saw a notable boost during Trump’s first term, starting with his 2016 phone call with Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen. However, Trump has criticized Taiwan for relocating segments of its semiconductor industry away from the US, complicating the partnership.
Outlook for US-China Relations
Trump’s upcoming presidency is likely to usher in significant changes in US-China dynamics. Trade disputes, the future of TikTok, and tensions over Taiwan will be key areas of focus. The conversation between Trump and Xi underscores the challenges and opportunities in shaping a new chapter in bilateral relations.
