Risk of Taiwan invasion remains despite Xi's assurances: Analysts

His comments were part of overall milder tone taken during Biden meeting, they say

- Yip Wai Yee Taiwan Correspondent

TAIPEI - A single point from the Biden-Xi meeting has dominated headlines in Taiwan: Chinese President Xi Jinping's apparent denial of plans to invade the island in the near future.

During the four-hour meeting between Mr Xi and United States President Joe Biden on Nov 15 outside of San Francisco, the two leaders had a substantial discussion on Taiwan - which Mr Xi described as the biggest, most dangerous issue facing the two superpowers.

According to a senior US official, the Chinese leader rejected American reports that Beijing was planning for military action against Taiwan in 2027 or 2035.

"He basically said there are no such plans, and that no one had informed him about them," the official told reporters, adding that Mr Xi had displayed a hint of irritation in his remarks.

Taiwanese TV outlets covered the news extensively, featuring looks of surprise and disbelief from members of the public in street interviews. On Facebook, social media users said it was difficult to trust Mr Xi's comments given Beijing's military aggression towards the island.

Analysts agreed it was not time to let one's guard down, despite China's ostensible assurances.

Distinguished Professor Kou Chien-wen, who teaches political science at Taiwan's National Chengchi University, said the possibility of China attacking Taiwan still exists.

"We cannot act like there's no risk any more," he added.