Xi, Trump Back Stable Ties for 3 Years as Xi Warns Taiwan Could Trigger Conflict
Updated
Updated · CNN International · May 14
Xi, Trump Back Stable Ties for 3 Years as Xi Warns Taiwan Could Trigger Conflict
11 articles · Updated · CNN International · May 14
Xi told Trump in Beijing that the two sides had agreed on a “constructive strategic stable relationship” to guide ties for the next three years and beyond, framing competition as manageable.
Taiwan emerged as Xi’s sharpest warning: he called it the most important issue in bilateral relations and said mishandling it could create a “very dangerous situation,” while Trump declined to answer reporters on whether it came up.
Iran and energy security also dominated the first day, with both leaders agreeing the Strait of Hormuz must remain open; Xi opposed militarizing the waterway or charging tolls and signaled interest in buying more US oil.
The White House called the roughly 2-hour talks “good” and said fentanyl and economic cooperation were discussed, but it gave no indication Xi had agreed to press Iran further or released details of expected trade deals.
The summit continues with a state banquet and another day of talks, testing whether the upbeat reset can hold across flashpoints from Taiwan and fentanyl to Middle East war and trade.
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2026 U.S.-China Strategic Stability Framework: Risks, Taiwan, and the Future of Managed Competition
Overview
In 2026, the U.S. and China established a new strategic stability framework following a summit between President Trump and President Xi Jinping. This framework aims to create a structured approach for managing their complex relationship, focusing on 'managed competition' rather than seeking major breakthroughs. Both leaders expressed a desire to lower tensions and maintain positive momentum, with Xi emphasizing deeper commercial engagement and openness. The framework is designed to prevent crises and provide predictability, reflecting the shared goal of reducing uncertainty in economic and security matters while addressing ongoing regional and global challenges.