Following the meeting between Donald Trump and Xi Jinping, China once again reaffirmed the importance of its “red lines,” which it deems unacceptable for the United States and other countries to cross.
During a virtual meeting held in Shanghai that brought together American and Chinese business representatives, China’s ambassador discussed four key “red lines” — Taiwan, democracy and human rights, political path and system choice, and the right to development — which China firmly expects its partner countries to respect. The ambassador stated: “We hope that the United States will avoid crossing these red lines and thereby prevent the emergence of problems.”
The ambassador emphasized the ongoing negotiations between China and the United States, noting that the process requires “mutual respect for each other’s core interests.”
These four “red lines” have long been considered highly sensitive issues for China. Consequently, Washington’s unofficial relations with Taipei remain a major source of tension in U.S.–China relations. Moreover, periodic U.S. criticism of human rights violations in China further intensifies the strain between the two countries.
Despite the tensions, Donald Trump stated that the issue of Taiwan was not discussed during the October 30 meeting. However, following the meeting between Xi Jinping and Trump, China made it clear that respect for and adherence to its “red lines” remain essential conditions for maintaining stable bilateral relations.
Author: Keti Abuladze
