Insta
After New Year Greetings, Trump Backs ‘One China’ Policy In Call With Xi Jinping
Swarajya Staff
Feb 10, 2017, 11:37 AM | Updated 11:37 AM IST
Save & read from anywhere!
Bookmark stories for easy access on any device or the Swarajya app.
On Thursday, President Donald Trump finally spoke to Chinese President Xi Jinping for the first time on the phone since his inauguration on 20 January and said that the United States would respect the “One China” policy. Earlier, Trump broke the ice by sending a letter to Xi, wishing the Chinese people a prosperous Lunar New Year. This comes after Secretary of State Rex Tillerson, in his written reply to questions after his Senate confirmation hearing, pledged to respect the One China policy.
According to the One China policy, there is only one state called China and the government that rules the mainland is the only legitimate government of the country.
Trump questioned Washington's stand on the One China policy before taking his seat in the Oval Office. In December, Trump had said that the US can’t be forced to accept the One China policy that the previous administrations have adhered to. Diplomatic relations between US and Taiwan were cut in 1979, recognising China’s sovereignty over Taiwan. Trump broke the protocol, accepting a congratulatory call from Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-wen.
According to a statement issued by the White House, Trump and Xi “discussed numerous topics and President Trump agreed, at the request of President Xi, to honour the One China policy”. The discussion was “extremely cordial,” the statement read, adding that the presidents “extended invitations to meet in their respective countries.”
"Xi Jinping appreciates Trump’s emphasis on the American government’s commitment to the One China policy and pointed out that the One China principle is the political foundation of US-China relations," Chinese official broadcaster CCTV reported.
Save & read from anywhere!
Bookmark stories for easy access on any device or the Swarajya app.
Introducing ElectionsHQ + 50 Ground Reports Project
The 2024 elections might seem easy to guess, but there are some important questions that shouldn't be missed.
Do freebies still sway voters? Do people prioritise infrastructure when voting? How will Punjab vote?
The answers to these questions provide great insights into where we, as a country, are headed in the years to come.
Swarajya is starting a project with an aim to do 50 solid ground stories and a smart commentary service on WhatsApp, a one-of-a-kind. We'd love your support during this election season.
Click below to contribute.