U.S. President Joe Biden speaks to the press, as he visits Allentown Fire Training Academy, in Allentown, Pennsylvania, U.S., January 12, 2024. REUTERS/Leah Millis
On Saturday, U.S. President Joe Biden unequivocally stated that the United States does not endorse the independence of Taiwan, following the Taiwanese electorate’s rejection of Chinese influence and the conferral of a third presidential term to the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP).
The newly elected Taiwanese President, Lai Ching-te, assumed office after robustly resisting Chinese pressure to be sidelined and expressed commitment to both opposing Beijing and pursuing diplomatic negotiations. President Biden, when questioned about his response to the election outcomes, asserted, “We do not support independence.”
In anticipation of the election results, the United States had earlier issued a warning, deeming any external interference in the electoral process as “unacceptable.” Taiwan, an island that China claims as its own, has been a democratic success story since its inaugural direct presidential election in 1996, marking the culmination of a protracted struggle against authoritarian rule and martial law. Despite the absence of formal diplomatic ties, the United States stands as Taiwan’s paramount international supporter and arms supplier.
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken conveyed congratulations to President Lai Ching-te on his electoral triumph. He affirmed the United States’ dedication to upholding cross-strait peace and stability and advocating for the peaceful resolution of discrepancies devoid of coercion. Blinken expressed anticipation for collaboration with President Lai and leaders from all political factions in Taiwan, aligning with the longstanding unofficial relationship and consonant with the U.S. policy on ‘One China.’
The Biden administration, wary of potential escalation in tensions with Beijing, has endeavored to foster amicable relations with China, as evidenced by discussions on security matters during a summit with President Xi Jinping in November.
In the aftermath of the elections, Taiwan’s government anticipates exerted pressure from China, including potential military maneuvers in proximity to the island during the upcoming spring. China has not renounced the use of force to achieve control over Taiwan.
As a demonstration of solidarity with the Taiwanese government, President Biden intends to dispatch an unofficial delegation to the self-governed island, according to a senior administration official. The composition of this delegation, likely to comprise former high-ranking American officials, is yet to be finalized. Comparable delegations have been sent to Taiwan on prior occasions.
China voiced displeasure in 2016 when then-President-elect Donald Trump engaged in a telephone conversation with President Tsai Ing-wen of Taiwan—an unprecedented exchange since President Jimmy Carter shifted diplomatic recognition from Taiwan to China in 1979.
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