Chinese President Xi Jinping is expected to press US President Donald Trump to halt American arms sales to Taiwan when the two leaders meet in Washington later this week, according to sources familiar with preparations for the summit. The issue is expected to be one of the most sensitive topics on the agenda as Beijing seeks to ease what it sees as a major source of tension in US–China relations.
According to reports, China plans to invoke its interpretation of the 1982 US–China Joint Communiqué, in which Washington stated its intention to gradually reduce arms sales to Taiwan. Chinese officials argue that continued military assistance to Taipei contradicts the spirit of that understanding and undermines efforts to maintain stability across the Taiwan Strait.
For Beijing, Taiwan remains the most important and politically sensitive issue in its relationship with the United States. China regards the self-governed island as part of its territory and has repeatedly demanded that foreign governments stop supplying weapons to Taipei. Chinese leaders maintain that reunification is a core national objective and have opposed what they describe as external interference.
The United States, however, has a different position. While Washington does not maintain formal diplomatic relations with Taiwan, it is legally required under the Taiwan Relations Act to provide the island with the means to defend itself. Successive US administrations have approved arms packages for Taiwan, arguing that a strong defence capability is essential for preserving peace and stability in the region.
Reports indicate that Xi may also raise the issue during visits and meetings linked to his Washington programme, making it a central point of discussion alongside trade, technology, and broader strategic relations.
Analysts say the outcome of these discussions could have significant implications for the future of US–China ties and security in the Indo-Pacific. While neither side is expected to change its fundamental position, both leaders will likely seek ways to manage disagreements and prevent further escalation over Taiwan.