Recent revelations from a critical summit between Chinese President Xi Jinping and President Joe Biden in San Francisco shed light on China’s determined stance regarding the reunification of Taiwan. Despite ongoing efforts to ease tensions between the two nations, Xi delivered a blunt message, emphasizing China’s commitment to peaceful reunification while hinting at the unpredictability of the timeline. This development has significant implications, considering China’s increasingly assertive behavior toward Taiwan and the upcoming presidential election on the democratic island.
During the summit, attended by a dozen American and Chinese officials, Xi Jinping communicated China’s intention to reunify Taiwan with the mainland. However, he stressed that the timing for this reunification had not been decided, injecting an element of uncertainty. Xi highlighted China’s preference for a peaceful resolution, dismissing the notion of an imminent use of force. Notably, U.S. military predictions suggesting a specific timeline for Xi’s plans were refuted by the Chinese leader.
Chinese officials sought a public statement from Biden expressing support for China’s goal of peaceful reunification with Taiwan and disapproval of Taiwanese independence. The White House, however, rejected this request, underscoring the complexity of the diplomatic dynamics between the two nations.
Xi’s private warning to Biden comes at a time when China’s actions toward Taiwan are perceived as increasingly aggressive. The revelation provides insights into Xi’s mindset, offering a glimpse into the challenges faced by the Biden administration in managing relations with China. As Taiwan approaches a crucial presidential election, the timing of Xi’s message adds another layer of complexity to the geopolitical landscape.
Described as a candid and non-confrontational exchange, the summit aimed to reduce tensions between the United States and China. Xi’s straightforward communication style, while consistent with his public stance, garnered attention due to the heightened concerns surrounding Taiwan. U.S. officials, familiar with the conversation, noted that Xi maintained a tough stance on Taiwan, aligning with his previous public statements.
Xi Jinping’s saber-rattling regarding Taiwan has been a source of concern for the Biden administration, which is actively seeking to avoid a military conflict with China. Xi’s public declaration at the Chinese Communist Party Congress, asserting military action if Taiwan declares independence with foreign support, underscored the gravity of the situation. Experts speculate that China’s economic goals may be compromised if a military conflict with Taiwan were to unfold, providing a strategic consideration.
During the summit, Xi expressed concerns about the presidential candidates in Taiwan’s upcoming election. He also acknowledged the influence the United States wields on Taiwan. When Biden urged China to respect Taiwan’s electoral process, Xi emphasized the importance of eventually moving toward a resolution, highlighting the underlying tensions.
USA stand on Taiwan
CIA Director William Burns had earlier indicated that U.S. intelligence suggested Xi had directed his military to be ready to invade Taiwan by 2027. While this does not necessarily mean an invasion will occur in that timeframe, it underscores the seriousness of Xi’s focus and ambition. Biden, in the past, asserted that the U.S. military would defend Taiwan in case of a Chinese invasion, although the White House has nuanced these statements.
The United States maintains its long-standing “One China” policy, officially recognizing Beijing as China’s sole legal government. However, unofficial relations with Taiwan persist, a point of contention with China, which claims Taiwan as its territory. The majority of Taiwan’s population favors maintaining the status quo, avoiding both unification with China and a formal declaration of independence.
Post-summit, Biden reiterated the U.S. commitment to the “One China” policy, emphasizing continuity in the nation’s stance. Despite ongoing complexities, the U.S. position remains unchanged.