Chinese General Asserts PLA Will 'Reunify' Taiwan

Xi Jinping Meets with Jake Sullivan

Chinese leader Xi Jinping held a meeting with US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan on Thursday, marking the conclusion of Sullivan's three-day visit to Beijing. This is the first visit by a sitting US national security adviser to China in eight years.

Confrontation with Chinese General

Before the meeting with Xi Jinping, Sullivan had a tense encounter with one of China's vice chairs of the Central Military Commission, Gen. Zhang Youxia. The general confronted Sullivan about the increasing US support for Taiwan's military. He emphasized that the reunification of Taiwan with mainland China is the duty of the Chinese PLA military, and they will not be discouraged. Throughout the encounter, Sullivan appeared uneasy, while Zhang seemed confident.

China's Demand to the US

A statement from the Chinese defense ministry demanded that the US cease military collaboration with Taiwan, stop arming Taiwan, and stop spreading false narratives about Taiwan. In response, Sullivan adopted a diplomatic and conciliatory tone, emphasizing the importance of responsibly managing US-China relations. He noted that such exchanges are rare.

White House Statement

A subsequent statement from the White House highlighted that both sides recognized the progress in regular military communications over the past ten months.

Reactions to Sullivan's Meeting with President Xi

In the aftermath of Sullivan's meeting with President Xi, both sides expressed their commitment to managing competition and avoiding direct conflict. Sullivan reiterated that competition does not necessarily lead to conflict or confrontation, emphasizing the importance of diplomacy. President Xi, on the other hand, reaffirmed China's commitment to a stable, healthy, and sustainable US-China relationship.

Repercussions of the Encounter with the PLA Delegation

Sullivan's encounter with the PLA delegation, where he was essentially reprimanded over the Taiwan issue, is likely to be used by Republicans to highlight the weaknesses in the Biden administration's foreign policy. They may argue that this incident shows that the world no longer respects America.

Surprise Meeting with Xi Jinping

The tone of Xi Jinping during the surprise meeting was reportedly conciliatory. It was revealed earlier on Thursday that the two sides had agreed to plan a call between Xi and Biden. However, there are no known plans for the two leaders to meet in person before the US election in November.

Bottom Line

This encounter between US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan and Chinese General Zhang Youxia brings to light the tension between the US and China over the Taiwan issue. It also highlights the complexities of diplomatic relations and the importance of maintaining a balance between competition and cooperation. What are your thoughts on this development? Share this article with your friends and let us know your views. Don't forget to sign up for the Daily Briefing, which is delivered every day at 6pm.