"Xi Jinping Demanded Biden Use 'Opposition to Taiwan Independence' Phrase Last Year"

US, Refused Despite Multiple Requests

Chinese President Xi Jinping reportedly requested during a summit with U.S. President Joe Biden in November last year that the U.S. describe its Taiwan policy as "opposing Taiwan independence." It is reported that the U.S. did not accept this request.

[Image source=Yonhap News]

On the 29th (local time), major foreign media outlets cited two anonymous U.S. government officials reporting that President Xi asked President Biden to change the language the U.S. uses regarding Taiwan independence. Xi and his Chinese advisors requested that the U.S. use the term "oppose" Taiwan independence rather than "not support" it. Over the following months, China made several such requests, but the U.S. rejected them. Taiwan is said to have been briefed by the U.S. on these discussions.

Although Chinese diplomats have continuously requested changes to Taiwan-related language from the U.S. over recent years, it was previously unknown that direct pressure had been applied at the summit level.

The White House, when asked for comment on the reports, reaffirmed the existing U.S. position of not supporting Taiwan independence. In a statement, the White House said, "The Biden-Harris administration has maintained consistency with the longstanding 'One China' policy."

The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated, "This question should be directed to the U.S. government. China's position on the Taiwan issue is clear and consistent."