In a significant prelude to his inauguration, President-elect Donald Trump engaged in a phone conversation with Chinese President Xi Jinping, with discussions focused on trade relations, the controversial drug fentanyl, and the popular social media platform TikTok. This call coincided with the US Supreme Court’s decision to uphold a law demanding the sale of TikTok by its China-based parent company to continue operations in the U.S.
Xi Emphasizes Positive Relations Ahead of Trump’s Presidency
China’s foreign ministry reported that Xi Jinping expressed hope for a constructive start to China-U.S. relations under the incoming administration. “We both attach great importance to interaction… and secure greater progress in China-U.S. relations from a new starting point,” Xi noted.
Taiwan Delegation Heads to Trump’s Inauguration
Simultaneously, a Taiwanese delegation set out for the U.S. to attend Trump’s inauguration, with leaders focusing on enhancing US-Taiwan ties. Taiwan’s legislative speaker Han Kuo-yu conveyed well wishes from the island’s population, highlighting a commitment to strengthen relations with the new U.S. administration.
Tensions Escalate Over Taiwan Relations
As past tensions between the U.S. and China over Taiwan linger, Xi urged Trump to handle the Taiwan issue thoughtfully, stressing the importance of China’s sovereignty. The situation remains critical as the U.S. is bound by domestic laws to provide Taiwan with defense support, against the backdrop of Beijing’s assertion over the self-governing island.
