Taiwan election: Biden denies support for independence
In a statement following the rejection of China by Taiwanese voters, President Joe Biden asserted that the United States does not support the independence of Taiwan, as reported by Reuters.
"We do not support independence," stated Biden.
Hours before the polls opened, Washington warned that any country intervening in the elections would be deemed "unacceptable."
Taiwan, an island neighbouring China, has been a democratic success story since its first direct presidential elections in 1996, marking the culmination of decades-long struggles against authoritarian rule and martial law.
Despite the absence of official diplomatic ties, the United States remains Taiwan's most significant international supporter and arms provider.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken congratulated Lai Ching-te on his victory, emphasising the U.S.' commitment to maintaining peace, stability, and peacefully resolving differences without pressure. He expressed anticipation for collaboration with Lai and leaders of all parties in Taiwan to promote their "long-standing unofficial relationship" in line with the U.S. policy on One China.
Biden, working to improve relations with China, including agreeing to discuss security differences at a summit with President Xi Jinping in California in November, has made efforts in this regard.
The Taiwanese government anticipates pressure from China on the future president, potentially through military manoeuvres near the island this spring, according to two senior government officials. China has not relinquished the option of using force to bring Taiwan under its control.
In a show of support for the Taiwanese government, Biden intends to send an unofficial delegation to the self-governing island, according to a senior official in the Biden administration.
The delegation is likely to include former high-ranking U.S. officials, although their names have not been disclosed. Similar delegations have been sent to Taiwan in the past.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
