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Chinese President Xi Jinping has urged the United States to act with caution when supplying weapons to Taiwan, describing the island as “the most important issue” in China–US relations during a phone call with US President Donald Trump.
According to Chinese state media, Xi told Trump that Beijing attaches “great importance” to ties with Washington and hopes both countries can manage differences through dialogue and mutual respect. He warned that US arms sales to Taiwan should be handled “with prudence”, stressing that China must safeguard its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Trump later described the call as “excellent” and “long and thorough”, highlighting what he called a strong personal relationship with Xi.
The phone conversation comes amid renewed diplomatic engagement between China and Western nations. Several leaders, including UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, have visited Beijing in recent months in an effort to reset strained relations. Trump himself confirmed he is planning to visit China in April, saying he is “very much” looking forward to the trip.
Trade, security and global conflicts discussed
Trump revealed that China is considering increasing its purchases of US soybeans to 20 million tonnes, up from the current 12 million tonnes. He also said the leaders discussed Russia’s war in Ukraine, the situation in Iran, and China’s potential purchases of US oil and gas.
“The relationship with China, and my personal relationship with President Xi, is an extremely good one,” Trump wrote on Truth Social, emphasising the importance of maintaining stable ties.
Taiwan remains a flashpoint
Taiwan continues to be a major source of tension between Washington and Beijing. While the US officially recognises Beijing under the ‘One China’ policy, it remains Taiwan’s strongest ally and its largest arms supplier.
In December, the Trump administration approved a massive $11 billion arms package for Taiwan, including advanced missile systems, rocket launchers and artillery. Beijing condemned the move at the time, warning it would escalate tensions across the Taiwan Strait.
China has repeatedly stated its intention to “reunify” with Taiwan and has not ruled out the use of force.
Following the Trump–Xi call, Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te said relations with the US remain “rock solid” and confirmed that all ongoing cooperation projects are continuing as planned.
Regional and global implications
Just hours before speaking with Trump, Xi also held a virtual meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, where both leaders praised the strengthening of China–Russia ties. Russian media reported that Putin accepted an invitation to visit China later this year.
Chinese state media portrayed Xi’s diplomatic engagements as evidence that Beijing intends to act as a stabilising force on the global stage, particularly amid concerns over recent US actions, including Washington’s controversial operation targeting Venezuela’s president.
A China Daily editorial said Xi’s calls with Trump and Putin underscored China’s commitment to dialogue and responsible diplomacy at a time of rising global confrontation.
