During Secretary of State Antony Blinken's recent visit to Beijing, discussions with Chinese officials centered around the upcoming 2024 Taiwanese elections, revealing underlying tensions between the two nations. Chinese officials reportedly pressed Blinken on Washington's position regarding the elections, particularly concerning Vice President Lai Ching-te, the Democratic Progressive Party's (DPP) presidential candidate. Beijing views Lai as a proponent of Taiwanese independence, a stance considered more assertive than that of current President Tsai Ing-wen.

The Wall Street Journal reported that Chinese officials alluded to a 2003 meeting between then-President George W. Bush and Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao, where Bush cautioned then-Taiwanese President Chen Shui-bian against escalating pro-independence sentiments. This historical reference underscores China's long-standing concern over Taiwan's independence movement. Sources indicate that the upcoming Taiwanese elections were a key point of discussion during Blinken's meetings.

Chinese officials also questioned Blinken about whether the U.S. had a vested interest in the election's outcome and whether the U.S. viewed the DPP favorably. Blinken reiterated the U.S. position of not supporting Taiwanese independence during his meeting with President Xi Jinping. This visit marked the first by a U.S. Secretary of State in five years.

The relationship between China and the U.S. has been strained by ongoing disagreements over the Taiwan Strait. China has demonstrated its displeasure through various actions, including severing diplomatic ties and conducting military exercises near Taiwan. These actions highlight the sensitivity surrounding the issue of Taiwan's status.

Taiwanese government reports have warned of potential Chinese interference in the January elections, including illicit funding of pro-Beijing candidates. Adding to the complexity, President Biden recently defended his public criticism of China and his labeling of Xi Jinping as a "dictator." Despite these comments, Biden has expressed his intention to meet with Xi in the future. When questioned about Biden's remarks, Blinken stated that the president "speaks for all of us" and emphasized the importance of open communication to address the existing differences between the two countries.