Xi warns Trump of possible conflict over Taiwan at Beijing summit

Chinese President Xi Jinping warned of “clashes and even conflicts” with the U.S. over Taiwan, cautioning President Donald Trump that tensions over the Beijing-claimed island could jeopardize ties between the world’s two biggest economies.

BEIJING — Chinese President Xi Jinping warned Thursday of “clashes and even conflicts” with the United States over Taiwan, cautioning President Donald Trump that tensions over the Beijing-claimed island could jeopardize ties between the world’s two biggest economies.

Subscribe to read this story ad-free

Get unlimited access to ad-free articles and exclusive content.

The stark warning was delivered as the two leaders met for high-stakes talks in Beijing at the start of their two-day summit. It contrasted with the public praise offered by both men as they arrived for a grand welcome ceremony at the Great Hall of the People in the Chinese capital.

The rival superpowers entered the summit divided over thorny issues including Taiwan, trade disputes and the Iran war, though both Washington and Beijing have sought to prioritize stability in bilateral relations after a turbulent start to Trump’s second term.