Donald Trump says "very good negotiating chip" about Taiwan arms package

With President Donald Trump expected to meet Chinese leader Xi Jinping around Sept. 24, U.S. allies in Asia are concerned he might give ground on Taiwan to win economic concessions from Beijing, according to government officials, lawmakers and analysts. Worries have grown since Trump in May tied a $14 billion U.S. arms package for Taiwan, awaiting his approval for months, to his China talks and said he was holding it back, presenting it as something that could help him in talks. Japan has pressed Washington to keep its customary diplomatic wording on Taiwan, and Taiwanese officials have said they hope no harm comes to the island. Beijing views Taiwan as a vital interest and has not excluded force. The officials and analysts cautioned that a softer U.S. stance could give Beijing more confidence and endanger regional calm.