The United States is concerned over aggressive actions the People’s Republic of China is taking against Taiwan, a leading democracy in the Indo-Pacific region and an important security and economic partner for the United States.
The PRC repeatedly sent fighter jets and bombers into Taiwan’s air defense zone – as many as 25 aircraft in a single day. It is also conducting military exercises in the Taiwan Strait that the PRC described as “combat drills.”
In addition to military threats and actions, the PRC also targeted Taiwan with diplomatic isolation; malicious cyber activities; economic pressure; and misinformation campaigns.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in an interview that Beijing’s “increasingly aggressive actions” are causing “real concern.” Noting that the United States has a serious commitment both to Taiwan and to peace and security in the Western Pacific, he added, “It would be a serious mistake for anyone to try to change the existing status quo by force.”
At a press briefing, State Department Spokesperson Ned Price emphasized that the commitment of the United States to Taiwan is “rock solid.”
“We know that it contributes to the maintenance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and within the region as well…In support of longstanding U.S. policy, as reflected in the Taiwan Relations Act, the United States maintains the capacity to resist any resort to force or other forms of coercion that would jeopardize the security or the social or economic system of the people on Taiwan.”
On April 9, the State Department announced new guidelines for U.S. government interaction with Taiwan counterparts “to encourage U.S. engagement with Taiwan that reflects our deepening unofficial relationship,” said Mr. Price in a written statement.
“These new guidelines liberalize guidance on contacts with Taiwan, consistent with our unofficial relations and provide clarity throughout the Executive Branch on effective implementation of our ‘one China policy.’” He noted, “The guidance underscores Taiwan is a vibrant democracy and an important security and economic partner that is also a force for good in the international community.”
At a press briefing, Spokesperson Price emphasized that the United States will “continue to work with allies and partners in support of our shared prosperity, our security, and our values in the Indo-Pacific region, and that includes with regard to peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait.”
