Iran, Trade, Taiwan: What’s Really at Stake in the Trump-Xi Summit?
US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping are set to meet in Beijing at a critical moment for US–China relations. With tensions spanning trade, technology, Iran and Taiwan, the summit could shape the direction of global geopolitics for years to come. While both sides appear eager to stabilize ties, deep disagreements remain over tariffs, export controls and the future of the Indo-Pacific security order. Taiwan is also expected to feature prominently, especially following recent US arms sales and growing Chinese pressure on Taipei’s international space. In this episode, we examine the stakes behind the Trump–Xi meeting, the possibility of a broader strategic bargain, and what the outcome could mean for Taiwan and the balance of power in Asia. *Recorded on May 7, 2026 at 2pm Taiwan Standard Time Host: Wen-Ti Sung Producer: Chinyeh Chiang Our guests: Bryce Barros - Institute for National Defense and Security Research (INDSR) Visiting Fellow Ronan Fu - Academia Sinica Institute of Political Science Assistant Research Fellow
