Xi Jinping, the President of China, will address the issue of arms sales to Taiwan during his visit to Washington. Taiwan, which China considers part of its territory, has always been one of the most sensitive diplomatic issues for Beijing, and China has called for an end to these sales.
The United States' Position on Taiwan
Despite not having formal diplomatic relations, the United States provides arms to Taiwan, which is governed democratically, for its self-defense. The Taiwanese government has rejected Beijing's claim of sovereignty, and the United States has stated that it intends to gradually reduce arms sales to Taiwan and is not seeking long-term arms sales to Taipei.
However, in a note published by Ronald Reagan, the former President of the United States, it was stated that the reduction of arms sales to Taiwan is contingent upon China's commitment to a peaceful resolution of disputes with Taiwan.
China's Pressure on the United States
China has increased its military activities around Taiwan over the past five years and has conducted military maneuvers with live missile tests. The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs has firmly opposed U.S. arms sales to Taiwan and emphasized that adherence to the three joint communiqués and previous U.S. promises regarding Taiwan is a prerequisite for the sustainable and healthy development of bilateral relations.
Xi Jinping will arrive in Washington on Wednesday, with formal talks scheduled for Thursday and a visit to the archives on Friday. White House officials have stated that Trump will soon announce his decision regarding a new arms sales package. During his first term, Trump approved the highest level of arms sales to Taiwan compared to any other president.
In the meantime, Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has stated that it is closely monitoring the developments of high-level exchanges between the United States and China and is maintaining stronger communications with the United States. Informed sources have also indicated that China has called for a halt to the delivery of arms ordered by Taiwan as well.
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