US President Donald Trump announced plans to engage in discussions with Chinese President Xi Jinping regarding the United States’ arms sales to Taiwan and the imprisonment of Hong Kong media mogul Jimmy Lai. As he prepared for talks in Beijing, Trump emphasized the longstanding US support for Taiwan’s defense, acknowledging President Xi’s preference against such arms deals. In December, Trump had unveiled a significant US weapons package for Taiwan valued at over $11 billion, underscoring continued support despite recent diplomatic tensions.
Trump’s administration has been advocating for increased financial commitments from Taiwan towards its defense, though a US official noted that the upcoming summit with Xi does not indicate any shift in US policy towards Taiwan. Trump expressed confidence that tensions over Taiwan would not escalate during his presidency, describing his relationship with President Xi as positive and affirming his desire to prevent any conflict. “I think we’ll be fine,” Trump stated, assuring that he does not foresee any immediate issues arising.
Alongside arms sales, Trump intends to raise the issue of Jimmy Lai, a prominent pro-democracy figure and outspoken critic of China, who was sentenced to 20 years in prison in February for conspiracy to collude with foreign forces and publishing seditious materials. Lai’s case has drawn international attention and criticism, highlighting concerns about the national security measures imposed in Hong Kong. Trump reiterated his support for Lai, stating his intention to advocate for Lai’s release during discussions with Xi, noting that he has addressed the matter with China previously.
The case of Jimmy Lai, founder of the now-defunct Apple Daily newspaper, has sparked global concern over the implications of Hong Kong’s national security law, prompting backlash from international rights groups and foreign governments. Trump also plans to discuss the arrest of Pastor Jin Mingri, founder of Zion Church, who was detained following China’s implementation of new regulations prohibiting unauthorized online religious activities and foreign collaboration. The crackdown on religious practices has been part of broader efforts by China’s religious authorities to tighten control over religious expression.