Trump claims he will speak to Taiwan’s president, departing from decades-long diplomatic norms
US and Taiwanese presidents have not spoken directly since Washington shifted diplomatic recognition to Beijing from Taipei in 1979
TL;DR
- Donald Trump stated he will speak with Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te.
- This would be an unprecedented direct conversation between US and Taiwanese presidents since 1979.
- Taiwan's foreign ministry indicated Lai would be happy to speak with Trump.
- Beijing views Taiwan as its territory and is angered by US military support for the island.
- Trump's previous call with Taiwan's then-President Tsai Ing-wen in 2016 angered China.
- Trump's administration has approved significant weapons sales to Taiwan, but he also sees them as a 'negotiating chip'.
- Beijing is reportedly withholding approval for a Pentagon official's visit until Trump decides on a major weapons sale to Taiwan.
- Lai stated his government is committed to maintaining the status quo and that China is undermining peace.
- Taiwan is strategically important to the US due to its advanced semiconductor exports.
- US law requires Washington to provide Taiwan with the means to defend itself.