Trump: Will discuss US arms sales to Taiwan with Xi Jinping, does not believe China will invade Taiwan

(Washington, May 11, Central News Agency) US President Donald Trump is scheduled to visit China this week, and he stated today that he will discuss the issue of future US arms sales to Taiwan with Chinese President Xi Jinping, adding that he believes Beijing authorities will not take Taiwan by force.

Agence France-Presse reported that when reporters asked Trump at the White House whether the US should continue selling weapons to Taiwan, he did not answer directly, but said, "I will discuss this issue with President Xi Jinping."

Trump told reporters: "President Xi Jinping hopes we don't do this, and I will discuss this issue. This is one of many issues I will discuss."

Trump also seemed to downplay the possibility of China attempting to seize Taiwan, saying: "I don't think that will happen. I think we'll be fine. I have a very good relationship with President Xi Jinping, and he knows I don't want to see that situation happen."

However, Trump pointed out that the United States is "very far away" from Taiwan, while referring to Xi Jinping, he said, "He is only 67 miles from Taiwan."

He also mentioned: "But you know, Japan and surrounding countries in the region give a lot of support to Taiwan."

Trump is scheduled to arrive in Beijing on May 13, his first visit to China since 2017, with bilateral talks scheduled for May 14 and 15.

According to previews provided by US officials to media reporters, issues such as Iran, Taiwan, artificial intelligence (AI), nuclear weapons, and rare earths are scheduled for discussion.