Overview
- Trump’s visit to Beijing, set for May 14-15, is framed as a stability-focused summit after months of strain over tariffs, Taiwan and the conflict with Iran.
- Beijing is elevating Taiwan as its top concern, with officials urging the U.S. to follow the One China principle as the basis for a steady relationship.
- Taiwan’s intelligence chief warned China may try tactical manoeuvring on the Taiwan issue during the talks, while noting Washington has reaffirmed its long-standing Taiwan policy.
- U.S. officials are pressing China to use its sway with Tehran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, and China’s foreign minister met Iran’s top diplomat in Beijing this week.
- Analysts expect only incremental outcomes such as a truce extension or purchase pledges, with a U.S. Senate visitor hinting at possible Boeing orders as rare earths controls and tech curbs keep trade tensions in play.