24th September 2026 – (Washington) China’s President Xi Jinping used talks at the White House to urge President Donald Trump to oppose Taiwanese independence and to handle the Taiwan question with caution, according to the state news agency Xinhua. Xi said China’s position on safeguarding national unity and territorial integrity is unequivocal, calling for a steady framework to underpin strategic cooperation and a more stable, healthy and sustainable future for bilateral ties.
Xi also addressed the Middle East, stating that China supports the United States and Iran returning to the terms of a memorandum of understanding reached in June in Islamabad. He said the aim should be to restore dialogue quickly and work towards a comprehensive settlement, including nuclear issues, after arrangements that paused fighting, reopened the Strait of Hormuz and lifted a United States naval blockade fell apart when clashes resumed.
The White House meeting formed part of Xi’s three‑day state visit to the United States, his first such trip in 11 years. Trump received Xi with full honours, including an official welcome ceremony and high‑level engagements in Washington. United States policy has long sought to balance support for the self‑governed island of Taiwan with the broader relationship with Beijing, which regards Taiwan as an integral part of its territory.
