FT: US blocks Taiwan president’s New York transit stop amid China pressure

The Trump administration has denied permission for Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te to stop in New York while en route to Central American countries, following objections from China, according to sources familiar with the decision.

Lai had planned a transit stop in the US this August on his way to Paraguay, Guatemala, and Belize—nations that officially recognise Taiwan. However, the US reportedly informed Lai he could not visit New York, prompting him to cancel his overseas trip altogether. On July 28, Lai’s office announced that he currently had no plans for international travel, citing Taiwan’s recovery from a recent typhoon and ongoing trade talks with the US, the Financial Times (FT) reports.

The White House did not respond to requests for comment. It remains unclear whether the transit denial applies solely to New York or to any US entry. In contrast, the Biden administration allowed then-president Tsai Ing-wen to stop in New York during a similar trip in 2023.

China opposes Taiwanese leaders visiting the US due to Washington’s lack of formal diplomatic relations with Taipei. Experts say the Trump administration’s move signals an effort to avoid aggravating Beijing amid sensitive trade negotiations and discussions about a potential US-China summit.

Bonnie Glaser, a China and Taiwan expert at the German Marshall Fund, criticised the decision, arguing it weakens US deterrence against China and emboldens President Xi Jinping to demand further concessions on Taiwan. Glaser also referenced past Trump administration actions that appeared to accommodate Chinese pressure on Taiwan.

The denial comes as US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng began a third round of trade talks in Stockholm on July 28, suggesting Washington prioritises trade diplomacy over signalling strong support for Taiwan at this time.

By Vugar Khalilov