Ahead of a high-stakes meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping in South Korea, Taiwan’s Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung said he is confident that Washington will not “abandon” Taipei. The reassurance comes amid speculation that Taiwan’s interests could be compromised as Trump seeks a trade breakthrough with Beijing.
Why It Matters:
The statement aims to calm fears in Taipei about being used as a bargaining chip in U.S-China diplomacy. Taiwan relies heavily on U.S security and economic support, even without formal diplomatic ties. As Beijing intensifies its military and political pressure on the island, Taiwan’s stability has become a key flashpoint in U.S-China relations.
Taiwan government: Seeking reassurance of continued U.S. support.
United States: Legally obligated to help Taiwan defend itself under the Taiwan Relations Act.
China: Increasing military pressure, accusing Taiwan of “separatism.”
Trump and Xi: Expected to discuss Taiwan amid trade and security negotiations.
What’s Next:
The Trump-Xi meeting at the APEC summit in South Korea will be closely watched for any shifts in U.S. policy toward Taiwan. Meanwhile, Beijing’s probe into Taiwanese lawmaker Puma Shen highlights escalating political hostility, though Taipei insists only its people can determine the island’s future.
With information from Reuters.
