Xi Jinping Emphasizes Importance of Taiwan's 'Return to China' in Call with Trump

In a recent phone call with U.S President Donald Trump, Chinese President Xi Jinping reiterated the importance of Taiwan’s reunification with China as a pillar of the post-World War II international order, according to multiple reports from international news agencies.

Background and Context

This conversation, as reported by the Corriere della Sera, South China Morning Post, and ANSA, happened amid rising tensions over Taiwan and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Xi and Trump discussed both Taiwan and Ukraine during their conversation, with Beijing expressing support for peace efforts in the latter.

Taiwan, a self-governing island off China's southeast coast, is claimed by Beijing as part of its territory. As reported by the Japan Times and The Guardian, Xi stressed to Trump that Taiwan's return to China is crucial for maintaining the post-war international order.

Key Developments

The Chinese leader used the call to remind Trump of the shared history between the U.S. and China, who fought shoulder-to-shoulder against Japanese militarism during World War II, as detailed by the Tehran Times. This history, Xi emphasized, should be the guiding principle in preserving the outcomes of the war, including Taiwan's return to China.

The Folha de S.Paulo reported that Xi told Trump that China's control over Taiwan is a fundamental part of the post-war international order. Similarly, Fox News stated that Xi outlined China’s principled position on the Taiwan question, underscoring the integral role it plays in the post-war international structure.

However, Taiwan's position on this matter differs significantly. Taiwan's Prime Minister, as reported by The Hindu, Sky News World, and the Japan Times, made a strong statement asserting that a return to China is not an option for Taiwan's people, emphasizing Taiwan's status as a fully sovereign and independent country.

Reactions and Implications

The conversation between Xi and Trump has stirred concerns in international circles, particularly in Tokyo. As noted by the Japan Times, the discussions are likely to fuel apprehensions that Trump may have given some level of understanding to China on the contentious issue of Taiwan.

Meanwhile, Taiwan has responded to Xi's comments with a clear message to China. The Taiwanese Prime Minister has categorically stated that the island nation is not considering a 'return' to China, effectively rejecting Xi's stance on the matter.

Current Status

The conversation between the two leaders, confirmed by a White House official according to Fox News, has brought the Taiwan issue back to the forefront of international discourse. While Beijing maintains its position on the reunification of Taiwan with China, Taiwan continues to assert its sovereignty and independence. The unfolding situation underlines the delicate balance of geopolitical relationships and the significance of the historical context in shaping future developments.