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President Donald Trump met with Chinese leader Xi Jinping in Beijing on Thursday as part of a high-stakes summit aimed at addressing trade imbalances and regional security concerns. Xi used the occasion to deliver a blunt message that any mishandling of the Taiwan issue could push the entire U.S.-China relationship into dangerous territory.

State media reported Xi telling Trump that the Taiwan question remains the most important matter between the two powers. He described Taiwan independence and stability across the strait as fundamentally incompatible, likening them to fire and water. The warning came during the first round of talks at the Great Hall of the People, with discussions expected to stretch over two days and touch on tariffs, Iran policy, and rare earth supplies.

Trump arrived in Beijing after earlier stops that included meetings with other business leaders traveling alongside him. The president has long criticized previous administrations for allowing China to gain ground economically and militarily. His team appears focused on securing better terms for American companies while avoiding commitments that would tie U.S. hands on defense matters.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent noted ahead of the meetings that Trump grasps the sensitivities around Taiwan and intends to handle them directly rather than through vague assurances. The United States has maintained a policy of strategic ambiguity on the island for decades, recognizing Beijing's claims in principle while continuing arms sales and unofficial ties with Taipei. Xi's remarks served as a reminder that China views any strengthening of those ties as unacceptable.

The broader agenda includes efforts to ease tensions over technology exports and supply chains critical to both economies. Trump has pushed for reduced reliance on Chinese manufacturing in key sectors, a stance that resonates with voters concerned about job losses and national security. Xi countered by signaling willingness to open parts of the Chinese market further, though details on concrete concessions remained limited in initial reports.

Observers noted the unusual optics of the two leaders sitting down amid ongoing disputes over semiconductors and agricultural exports. Trump has repeatedly highlighted how past trade deals favored Chinese interests at America's expense. The current talks represent an attempt to reset those terms without conceding ground on core principles like freedom of navigation in the South China Sea.

No immediate breakthroughs were announced after the opening session. Both sides emphasized the need for continued dialogue to prevent miscalculations. For Trump, the priority remains protecting American workers and industries from unfair competition. For Xi, the message was clear that Taiwan sits at the center of any lasting accommodation between the powers.

The meetings continue Friday with additional economic and security topics on the table. Trump has signaled he will not shy away from tough negotiations, consistent with his record of confronting what he sees as China's long-term challenge to U.S. primacy.