BEIJING: US President Donald Trump warned Taiwan against declaring formal independence after meeting Chinese leader Xi Jinping, who urged Washington not to support the island.
Trump said he opposed Taiwan independence and questioned US military involvement in any conflict, while calling for tensions with China to “cool down”.
The US maintains a policy of recognising Beijing and does not support Taiwan independence, though it remains legally bound to provide defensive arms to Taipei.
The visit produced vague “fantastic” trade claims, with Boeing confirming China’s commitment to buy 200 aircraft, while Trump said Beijing would also purchase US oil and soybeans.
No major breakthroughs were announced on other issues, including Iran, Hong Kong activist Jimmy Lai, or broader trade disputes.
Analysts said the summit appeared more symbolic than substantive, with limited concrete outcomes beyond optics and aircraft orders.
