TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwan is monitoring developments ahead of a possible meeting between US President Donald Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping, Nikkei Asia reported Tuesday.
A planned visit by Trump to Beijing has been delayed by “a month or so” due to conflict in the Middle East. The postponement extends the timeline for Taipei to gauge what Trump might say during talks with Xi.
Analysts say Beijing is likely to raise Taiwan-related issues during any summit. These could include US arms sales and political support for President Lai Ching-te’s (賴清德) defense policies.
China considers Taiwan part of its territory and has opposed US military support for Taipei. Xi raised the issue in a recent call with Trump, underscoring its importance in bilateral ties.
In Taiwan, the discussion is also shaped by domestic politics. Opposition lawmakers, led by the KMT, have advocated for lower defense spending and increased engagement with Beijing.
The opposition-controlled legislature has slowed parts of the ruling DPP’s defense agenda. It has approved about NT$289.32 billion (US$9 billion) in previously agreed US arms purchases, while broader budget debates continue.
Brookings Institution Nonresident Senior Fellow Richard Bush said Beijing may seek statements from Trump reflecting its positions. These could include language on Taiwan independence, arms sales, or cross-strait relations.
Such wording can carry different interpretations. Bush noted that phrases like “opposing Taiwan independence” may be understood differently in Washington, Taipei, and Beijing.
Statements supporting unification would also be closely scrutinized in Taiwan. Analysts say such remarks could be seen as signaling a shift in US policy.
Taiwanese officials have not publicly speculated on potential outcomes but say they are preparing for a range of scenarios. One official said Taipei expects US arms sales to proceed as planned.
The US approved more than NT$351.45 billion in arms sales to Taiwan last year. Reports indicate a larger package may be under consideration, with timing potentially linked to broader US-China engagement.
Officials also pointed to evolving military activity around Taiwan. A recent reduction in Chinese air sorties has drawn attention, with some analysts viewing it as part of broader signaling ahead of potential talks.
Since Trump returned to office, Taiwan has sought to maintain stable ties with Washington. Efforts include proposals to increase defense spending and expand cooperation in chips and energy.
Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung (林佳龍) has described the US as a key partner and reiterated a plan to raise defense spending to 5% of GDP by 2030. He also emphasized strengthening industrial cooperation.
Observers say Taiwan’s diplomatic position presents challenges in managing ties with the current US administration. Unlike some other governments, Taipei has limited opportunities for direct high-level engagement, they said.
