China warns US over Taiwan President's Pacific tour, urges 'utmost caution'

China has issued a stern warning to the United States, urging “utmost caution” in its dealings with Taiwan as the island’s President Lai Ching-te prepares to embark on a Pacific tour with stopovers in Hawaii and Guam.

The trip, set to begin Saturday, includes visits to the Marshall Islands, Tuvalu, and Palau—three of the 12 nations that maintain formal diplomatic ties with Taiwan.

Beijing, which claims Taiwan as its territory, fiercely opposes any foreign engagement with Taiwan’s leaders, particularly those involving the United States. Mao Ning, spokesperson for China’s foreign ministry, reiterated Beijing’s stance, referencing President Xi Jinping’s recent comments to U.S. President Joe Biden at the Asia-Pacific summit in Peru.

“If the United States wants to maintain peace in the Taiwan Strait, it is crucial for it to recognize the independence nature of Lai Ching-te and the Democratic Progressive Party authorities,” Mao said. She called on the U.S. to “handle the Taiwan issue with utmost caution, unequivocally oppose Taiwan independence, and support the peaceful reunification of China.”

Mao further condemned what she described as Taiwan leaders “scurrying to the United States” and warned against U.S. support for “separatist activities.” She emphasized China’s “unwavering determination to defend its national sovereignty and territorial integrity.”

President Lai, visiting a temple in New Taipei on Friday, dismissed Beijing’s claims over Taiwan, asserting that only the island’s people can decide its future. His Pacific tour aims to deepen Taiwan’s partnerships with its allies and expand the island’s global presence, according to a statement from the presidential office.

China is expected to respond to Lai’s trip with military drills near Taiwan, using his U.S. stopovers as justification, according to assessments by Taiwanese and regional security officials. Taiwan’s Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung told lawmakers on Thursday that war games were a likely scenario during the trip.

The trip marks Lai’s first overseas visit since taking office in May, adding another layer of tension to the already strained relations between China, Taiwan, and the United States.