Thu May 01 00:15:19 UTC 2025: ## Taiwan Minister Warns of Xi’s “Fanatic Nationalism,” Expresses Confidence in US Support Despite Trump’s Ambivalence
**Taipei, Taiwan** – Taiwan’s Mainland Affairs Council Minister Chiu Chui-cheng has expressed concerns about Chinese President Xi Jinping’s increasingly assertive and nationalistic policies, while maintaining confidence in the enduring strength of the US-Taiwan relationship despite uncertainties surrounding the Trump administration. In an exclusive interview with Al Jazeera, Minister Chiu stated that Xi’s regime is fueling “fanatic nationalism,” leading to military expansionism and aggressive diplomacy.
Chiu acknowledged growing Taiwanese anxieties about the potential for the US to compromise its support for Taiwan in its dealings with China. Recent actions by former US President Trump, including accusations of Taiwanese chip theft, demands that Taiwan fund its own defense, and threats of tariffs on Taiwanese companies, have fueled these concerns. A recent public opinion poll showed a significant drop in Taiwanese belief that the US would militarily intervene to defend the island.
Despite these concerns, Minister Chiu emphasized the strong and consistent bipartisan support for Taiwan within the US Congress and highlighted the historically close ties between the US and Taiwan. He stated that the Taiwanese government believes the US would never yield to unreasonable Chinese demands regarding the US-Taiwan relationship.
Chiu also highlighted the strategic importance of Taiwan to the US, emphasizing its role in the first island chain defense strategy and its position as a global leader in semiconductor manufacturing. He asserted that Taiwan is an indispensable partner for the US and that this irreplaceable role should demonstrate the value of the Taiwan-US relationship.
The minister further detailed the ongoing challenges posed by China’s “United Front” tactics, which aim to sow division and influence public opinion within Taiwan. He cited a significant increase in espionage cases as evidence of these ongoing threats, alongside the escalation of Chinese military activities near Taiwan, including thousands of military flights and naval deployments.
The interview underscored Taiwan’s cautious but unwavering approach, balancing concerns about shifting US policy with a determination to maintain its sovereignty and democracy in the face of increasing pressure from China.
First Piper 