Beijing: U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping held a second day of high level talks in Beijing on Thursday, focusing on major global tensions including the Iran conflict, Taiwan and trade relations between the world’s two largest economies.
The meeting comes at a time of growing international concern over rising instability in the Middle East and continued disagreements between Washington and Beijing on security and economic matters. Despite clear differences, both leaders appeared willing to continue dialogue and prevent relations from worsening further.
One of the most sensitive topics discussed during the summit was Taiwan. Chinese President Xi Jinping reportedly warned that the Taiwan issue remains a dangerous point in U.S. China relations and said any wrong move could increase tensions in the region. China strongly opposes American military support and arms sales to Taiwan, which Beijing considers part of its territory.
The United States maintained that its policy on Taiwan has not changed. American officials said Washington continues to support peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. Taiwan’s government later welcomed the continued support from the United States.
The war situation involving Iran also received major attention during the talks. Trump and Xi discussed the importance of keeping the Strait of Hormuz open for global shipping and energy supplies. Recent attacks and security fears in the Gulf region have pushed oil prices higher and increased concerns about the world economy.
President Trump is understood to have urged China to use its influence with Iran to help reduce tensions and encourage diplomatic talks. China, however, maintains close economic and strategic ties with Iran, making the situation more complicated.
Trade and economic cooperation formed another key part of the discussions. Officials from both countries are working on possible agreements aimed at improving business and investment ties. Reports suggest that China may increase purchases of American agricultural products including soybeans, poultry, beef and natural gas.
There were also discussions about a possible large scale Boeing aircraft deal, which could become one of the biggest aviation agreements between the two countries in recent years. Technology issues, especially restrictions on advanced computer chips and artificial intelligence development, were also raised during the summit, although no major breakthrough was announced.
Trump reportedly pressed for greater access for American financial companies in the Chinese market. He said he wanted firms such as Visa to receive more opportunities to operate in China’s financial sector.
The Beijing summit is being closely watched around the world as both leaders face important challenges at home. Trump is dealing with economic pressure caused by rising fuel prices and global uncertainty linked to the Iran conflict. Xi Jinping is also facing pressure to strengthen China’s slowing economy and maintain stable international trade relations.
While major disagreements remain unresolved, analysts believe the talks are important for maintaining communication between the United States and China during a period of increasing global tension.