A high-ranking Taiwanese official stated Monday that Taiwan would be open to direct communication between President Donald Trump and President Lai Ching-te, as the island nation works to address worries stemming from Trump’s comments after his recent meeting with Chinese leader Xi Jinping.
During their Beijing meeting last week, Trump and Xi had discussions about Taiwan, which China claims as its territory. Xi issued warnings about potential conflict if the Taiwan situation isn’t managed appropriately.
Following the summit, Trump offered various statements regarding Taiwan, including expressing uncertainty about future weapons sales, hinting at possible communication with Lai, and noting that the United States was “not looking to have somebody say, ‘Let’s go independent’”.
No direct communication has taken place between a serving U.S. president and Taiwan’s leader since Washington changed its diplomatic recognition from Taipei to Beijing in 1979.
Taiwan Deputy Foreign Minister Chen Ming-chi informed reporters that Trump’s statements had “caused some unnecessary concern” in Taiwan, though the government maintains that “nothing has changed.”
Chen explained that Taiwan would be receptive if Trump genuinely wishes to communicate with Lai.
“Of course, we would also ask: based on what you have said, does that mean you want to speak with our president? If he says yes, then should we make the relevant arrangements? We very much hope to have such an opportunity,” Chen added.
The United States serves as Taiwan’s primary international supporter and weapons provider.
Taiwan’s leadership disputes Beijing’s claims of sovereignty over the island, maintaining that only Taiwan’s citizens have the authority to determine their own future.
