Xi urges US to oppose Taiwan independence in talks with Trump

Chinese President Xi Jinping urged the United States to oppose Taiwan independence and maintain caution during his talks with U.S. President Donald Trump on Thursday, according to the Chinese Foreign Ministry. This indication suggests Beijing's heightened pressure on Washington, which maintains neutrality on the island's independence.

China claims Taiwan as part of its territory and aims for reunification, even by force if necessary. Xi also emphasized the importance of Sino-U.S. cooperation in artificial intelligence, requesting both sides to leverage each other's strengths and prevent misuse of the technology. He advocated for maintaining human control over AI and ensuring it serves human progress.

Xi stressed a healthy competition between the world's two largest economies to manage differences by seeking common ground. During a state dinner, Xi highlighted their shared wartime bond, stating they stood shoulder to shoulder against Japanese militarist aggression. He also noted their historical friendship will endure through generations.

Earlier, at the arrival ceremony, Trump referred to the two countries as allies in World War II, acknowledging the bravery of American pilots who fought for China's survival. Japan's top government spokesman, Minoru Kihara, emphasized the strengthening of Japan-U.S. relations without directly addressing the U.S.-China summit. Xi welcomed Japan's investment and called for regular dialogue between their militaries.

He proposed increasing direct flights and inviting 100,000 American students to study in China over the next five years. Xi also invited two panda cubs from China to Zoo Atlanta, calling them an 'envoy of friendship.' During the summit, the leaders discussed Middle Eastern and Korean Peninsula situations, urging the U.S. and Iran to return to negotiations for resolving disputes.