Taiwan’s Foreign Ministry announced Thursday that President Lai Ching-te would welcome the opportunity for a conversation with U.S. President Donald Trump, marking what could be an historic diplomatic moment.
No direct communication has taken place between leaders of the United States and Taiwan since 1979, when Washington transferred its diplomatic recognition from Taipei to Beijing. Beijing views Taiwan as part of its territory and maintains it has not ruled out military force to achieve control over the island.
On Wednesday, Trump indicated he would engage in dialogue with Lai, though he provided no additional specifics about such a conversation.
The Foreign Ministry in Taiwan echoed statements Lai delivered Wednesday, noting that any discussion with Trump would include his message that China threatens regional stability while his administration remains committed to preserving current conditions in the Taiwan Strait.
“In addition to being committed to maintaining the stable status quo in the Taiwan Strait, President Lai is also happy to discuss these matters with President Trump,” the ministry added, without elaborating.
A similar diplomatic breakthrough occurred in late 2016 when Trump, as president-elect, conducted a phone conversation with Taiwan’s then-President Tsai Ing-wen, breaking established U.S. diplomatic protocol spanning decades.
China has expressed frustration over continued U.S. military assistance to Taiwan aimed at preventing Chinese military intervention, particularly through weapons sales.
Taiwan’s leadership continues to reject Beijing’s claims of sovereignty over the island.
