A visiting delegation in Taipei yesterday said that support for Taiwan is a consensus across party lines in the US, and that the Taiwan Strait is vital for regional and international peace.
The delegation, led by US Representative Debbi Lesko, included US representatives Andy Biggs and Carol Miller, and made the remarks in a meeting with National Security Council Secretary-General Joseph Wu (吳釗燮) at the Presidential Office.
Wu thanked the US lawmakers for their visit and said that he hoped Washington would continue to advocate for Taiwan.
Photo courtesy of the Presidential Office
Exchanges between Taiwan and the US would continue under the US’ Taiwan Policy Act of 2022, which demonstrates bipartisan support for the country, Wu said.
The US executive branch has reiterated the importance of maintaining peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait through its joint statements with fellow G7 countries and bilateral statements with friendly countries, Wu added.
US support not only enhances international awareness of Taiwan’s strategic importance, but also increases the nation’s regional role, he said.
Criticizing China’s use of “gray zone” tactics, such as cognitive and legal warfare to harass Taiwan, including its misinterpretation of UN Resolution 2758, Wu said that it does not contribute to cross-strait peace and limits Taipei’s engagement with the international community.
There are still many important fields of cooperation between Taiwan and the US, such as the double-taxation agreement, building resilient democracies and deepening economic ties, Wu said.
Taiwan is a key US partner in the region, and it remains committed to peace and stability, and looks forward to continued US support, he added.
The US lawmakers said they were honored to visit Taiwan, having long paid attention to the geopolitical situation in the region and China’s repeated incursions into Taiwan’s territory.
China’s illegal intrusions are no longer limited to the Taiwan Strait, as Beijing’s actions in the East and South China seas have also received global criticism for not abiding by international law, they said.
Washington should work with allies and like-minded countries to stop these actions, they said.
There is bipartisan consensus on the need to continue supporting Taiwan, they said, adding that upon their return to the US, they would continue to speak out in support of strengthening the nation’s defensive capabilities, and contributing to trade and economic relations.
The delegation, visiting Taiwan from Sunday until Friday, is also to attend the Double Ten National Day celebrations in Taipei.
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