U.S.-China Relations Tense Over Taiwan Issue as Leaders Disagree Post-APEC

As U.S. President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping attended the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in San Francisco, their discussions remained heavily focused on the contentious topic of Taiwan's independence, a topic that continues to cause friction in U.S.-China relations.

Leaders' Stance on Taiwan

U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen outlined the persistent gap between the two leaders on Taiwan's status, emphasizing the crucial role it plays in the dynamics between the United States and China. President Xi reiterated China's intention for peaceful unification with Taiwan, while President Biden affirmed the U.S. position remains consistent, supporting the notion that Taiwan governs itself, even as China lays claim to the island.

Military Concerns and the Risk of Conflict

China's increased military operations near Taiwan have raised concerns about the potential for accidental clashes that could escalate into conflict. Taiwanese defense officials have observed an uptick in Chinese military presence around the island, and U.S. military leaders have warned of a possible Chinese attack by 2027, urging further U.S. support for Taiwan's defenses.

The Diplomatic Tightrope

Challenges such as the visit of former U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi to Taiwan have strained relations, leading China to cut off military communications with the U.S. Although the two countries agreed, after the recent meeting, to restore military-to-military talks, they remain divided over Taiwan's sovereignty. The U.S.'s commitment to Taiwan implicates sensitive diplomatic ties with China owing to the latter's assertion over the governance of Taiwan.

Financial Aid and National Security

Biden has proposed aid packages with limited funding for Taiwan, despite concerns that more support may be required to fortify Taiwan against potential Chinese aggression. Yellen has championed this financial backing as vital for U.S. national security.

Additional Topics of Discussion

Alongside the issue of Taiwan, leaders Biden and Xi also traded views on cooperation over various global concerns such as fentanyl regulation, artificial intelligence, climate change, and economic relations. Yellen, having previously conversed with China's Vice Premier He Lifeng, indicated plans for a forthcoming trip to China to continue these discussions.

Taiwan, China, APEC