The U.S.-Taiwan relationship, though unofficial, has never been stronger than it is today.
“The U.S.-Taiwan relationship, though unofficial, has never been stronger than it is today,” U.S. Department of State Deputy Assistant Secretary for East Asian and Pacific Affairs Kin Moy said recently before the U.S. Congress in marking the 35th anniversary of the Taiwan Relations Act.
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Promise Of The Taiwan Relations Act
“I firmly believe strengthening our long-standing friendship with the people on Taiwan remains a key element of the U.S. strategic rebalance to the Asia-Pacific,” Deputy Assistant Secretary Moy said. “[Our] friendship is grounded in history, shared values, and our common commitment to democracy, free markets, rule of law, and human rights.”
The Taiwan Relations Act has played a key part in protecting Taiwan’s freedom of action and U.S. interests the last 35 years in the Asia-Pacific area. Taiwan’s status today as a top 20 world economy leading regional development, conservation, and assistance efforts, is a testimony to the diligence of the people on Taiwan and to the success of the Taiwan Relations Act.
“The United States has an abiding interest in peace and stability across the [Taiwan] Strait,” Mr. Moy said in affirming the U.S.-Taiwan security ties.
Taiwan’s cultural and economic ties with the United States are equally as strong. “Direct investment from Taiwan to the United States stood at approximately $7.9 billion [in 2012]. . . [and Taiwan] was the 12th -largest trading partner [of the United States] in 2013 . . . Taiwan [also] sends more students [per capita] to the United States than mainland China, India, or even Canada,” he said.
The United States aims to enable the people on Taiwan to comply with international regulations in addressing trans-border health issues, facilitating international travel, giving and receiving assistance, and assisting in capacity-building.
“Taiwan has earned a respected place in the world,” Mr. Moy said in conclusion. “Thanks to the Taiwan Relations Act, people of goodwill in the United States and on Taiwan have a firm foundation to further strengthen our robust relationship for the benefit of both our peoples.”
