Chinese President Xi Jinping delivered a firm message to U.S. President Donald Trump during a high-level meeting in Beijing, identifying the Taiwan issue as the most critical factor in China–U.S. relations. According to China’s state news agency Xinhua, Xi stated that proper handling of the Taiwan question could ensure stable bilateral ties, but mismanagement might lead to major confrontation and jeopardize the entire relationship.

Xi emphasized that Taiwan’s independence and peace across the Taiwan Strait are fundamentally incompatible, comparing them to fire and water that cannot coexist. Analysts cited in the report described Beijing’s strong tone as highly significant amid rising geopolitical tensions between the two powers.

The report noted that China consistently warns the United States over its arms support and diplomatic stance toward Taiwan, which Beijing considers an inseparable part of its territory. Xi’s remarks signaled that China maintains a firm, non-flexible position on the Taiwan issue.