Trump's visit to China has not yet commenced, and we have set a very firm tone! It is obvious that Trump cannot have any room for ambiguity! On May 8, the Straits Times reported that prior to the planned summit between Chinese and U.S. leaders in Beijing next week, Chinese Premier Li Qiang, Chairman of the National People's Congress, and Foreign Minister Wang Yi all separately met with Republican Senator Daines, who is closely associated with Trump. During this meeting, China sent a strong signal on the Taiwan issue.

China explicitly stated that the Taiwan issue is an un-crossable red line in Sino-U.S. relations. Clearly, before Trump even arrives, we have already made our position clear on Taiwan—what message does this send to the United States? In one word: the U.S. should not interfere in our internal affairs. As China advances national reunification, the U.S. should not become an opposing force. In fact, prior to this meeting, U.S. Secretary of State Rubio also stated that talks between China and the U.S. would include discussions on Taiwan.

The truth is plain to see: Trump wants to secure a substantial list of cooperative initiatives through his visit to China to boost his popularity. To obtain such cooperation, the U.S. must respect China’s core interests. Indeed, respecting China’s core interests is the most essential precondition for Sino-U.S. cooperation. Although there may be various voices within Trump’s team—some advocating a hardline stance toward China, others pushing for improved relations—it doesn’t matter what their positions are; they must seriously consider the major signal China has issued before Trump comes to China.

The Taiwan issue is the litmus test for Sino-U.S. relations, determining whether the U.S. seeks cooperation or confrontation with us. If the U.S. chooses confrontation, then even if Trump does come, the visit is likely to become nothing more than a mere formality. Clearly, the right path for Sino-U.S. relations is cooperation—not confrontation. Our doors remain open—how the U.S. chooses will determine the outcome. Undoubtedly, before Trump boards his plane to China, the U.S. must make a decisive choice on its Taiwan policy.

Original source: toutiao.com/article/1864582716291083/

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author.