US President Donald Trump announced plans to discuss arms sales to Taiwan and the imprisonment of Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai with Chinese President Xi Jinping during his upcoming visit to Beijing. Responding to questions about the US’s ongoing support for Taiwan’s defense, Trump confirmed that the topic would be on the agenda, acknowledging China’s preference against such sales. In December, the US approved its largest-ever arms package for Taiwan, valued at over $11 billion, and Trump noted that his aides have been encouraging Taiwan to further invest in its defense capabilities. A US official emphasized that the Trump-Xi summit would not signal any changes in US policy toward Taiwan.
Despite the tensions surrounding Taiwan, Trump expressed confidence that no conflict would arise during his presidency. “I don’t think it’ll happen,” he stated, without providing further details, and highlighted his positive relationship with Xi. Alongside the arms discussion, Trump intends to raise the case of Jimmy Lai, a prominent pro-democracy advocate and critic of the Chinese government, who is currently serving a 20-year sentence for charges including conspiracy to collude with foreign forces and publishing seditious materials. Lai’s sentencing has drawn international concern over Hong Kong’s national security measures, particularly due to his role as the founder of the once-influential Apple Daily newspaper.
Trump reiterated his desire to see Lai released, stating, “Jimmy Lai — he caused lots of turmoil for China. He tried to do the right thing. He wasn’t successful, went to jail, and people would like him out, and I’d like to see him get out too.” He mentioned having discussed Lai’s case with Chinese officials in the past. The incident surrounding Lai has sparked criticism from foreign governments and human rights organizations regarding the implications of the national security law in Hong Kong.
In addition to Lai’s case, Trump plans to address the arrest of Pastor Jin Mingri, founder of Zion Church, who was detained late last year. This crackdown followed the introduction of new regulations by China’s top religious authority, which prohibited unauthorized online religious activities and collaborations with foreign entities. Trump’s conversations with Xi aim to address these human rights issues and navigate the complexities of US-China relations.