Trump Downplays Taiwan Tensions, Eyes Fair Trade Deal With China
U.S. President Donald Trump said on Monday that he expects to reach a fair trade deal with Chinese President Xi Jinping, while downplaying concerns over Taiwan. His remarks came even as U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer accused Beijing of “economic coercion” targeting American companies.
Speaking to reporters, Trump said he believes China has no intention of invading Taiwan, though he acknowledged that the topic will likely be discussed when he meets Xi next week at an economic summit in South Korea.
Trade Tensions Linger Ahead of Xi Meeting
Trade frictions between the U.S. and China, the world’s two largest economies, have persisted over issues including tariffs, technology transfers, and market access. These disputes remain unresolved just days before the Trump–Xi meeting.
Trump made his comments during talks with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, where both sides signed a critical minerals agreement aimed at reducing dependency on Chinese supply chains.
“China Doesn’t Want to Invade Taiwan,” Says Trump
Addressing one of the most sensitive issues in U.S.–China relations, Trump reaffirmed that China does not seek to invade Taiwan. Beijing, however, has repeatedly pressed Washington to modify its language regarding Taiwan’s independence.
Trump also highlighted U.S. military strength, saying, “We have the best of everything, and nobody is going to mess with that.” He added that he expects a strong and fair trade deal that would benefit both nations.
U.S. Trade Officials Warn Beijing on “Economic Coercion”
Later in the day, Trade Representative Jamieson Greer took a tougher stance, warning that the U.S. would respond firmly to China’s economic coercion against companies investing in strategic industries.
Greer’s comments followed reports that China’s sanctions on U.S.-linked divisions of Hanwha Ocean could disrupt shipbuilding cooperation between South Korea and the United States.
“Attempts at intimidation will not stop the U.S. from rebuilding its shipbuilding base and defending critical industrial sectors,” Greer said.
Taiwan Confirms Ongoing U.S. Support
When asked whether Washington might alter its stance on Taiwan’s independence to secure a trade deal, Trump replied that the topic “might come up,” but declined to elaborate further.
In Taipei, Wang Liang-yu, head of Taiwan’s North American Affairs Department, said communication between Taiwan and the U.S. remains “smooth.” She confirmed that the Trump administration has consistently reaffirmed its support for Taiwan.
“The foreign ministry will continue close coordination with the U.S. to ensure stability and protect our interests,” she added.
Beijing’s Ongoing Pressure on Taiwan
Beijing continues to increase military and diplomatic pressure on Taiwan, which it regards as its own territory. While China has never ruled out the use of force, the United States remains Taiwan’s most important security partner and arms supplier, despite the absence of formal diplomatic ties. Beijing routinely condemns any signs of U.S. support for Taipei.
