Taipei: Taiwan's government expressed confidence in maintaining stable ties with the United States while keeping a watchful eye on the discussions set to take place at the upcoming summit between U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping. Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung highlighted the government's commitment to monitoring the summit's approach to Taiwan-related issues.
According to Focus Taiwan, President Trump is scheduled for a Beijing visit from Wednesday to Friday for the summit with Xi. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio indicated that Taiwan would likely feature on the agenda, with both Washington and Taipei aligned on the importance of stability in the Taiwan Strait.
In his remarks on the sidelines of a legislative session, Lin emphasized the continuous communication with Washington through various channels. He reassured that the U.S. policy regarding Taiwan remains unchanged, as reiterated by American officials.
During his address to lawmakers, Lin underscored the durability of Taiwan-U.S. relations, anchored in the Taiwan Relations Act (TRA) and the Six Assurances. The TRA, enacted in 1979, obligates the U.S. to provide Taiwan with defense capabilities following the cessation of formal diplomatic relations. The Six Assurances, established in 1982, include commitments such as not consulting Beijing on arms sales to Taiwan.
Lin noted that while Washington intends to prioritize discussions on the trade war, fentanyl, and Middle Eastern affairs, Beijing is expected to raise the Taiwan issue during the summit. "We hope for no surprises regarding Taiwan at the Trump-Xi meeting," Lin stated, confirming the government's vigilant monitoring of the proceedings.
Despite President Trump's unconventional rhetoric, both his administrations have consistently supported arms sales to Taiwan and recognized Taiwan's role in the broader U.S. national security framework. Lin concluded by advising a balanced approach, suggesting concern but not excessive worry regarding the summit's outcomes.