Biden Affirms: U.S. Does Not Back Taiwan Independence
In a statement clarifying the United States' position, President Joe Biden asserted on Saturday that the U.S. does not support Taiwan's independence. This declaration came following Taiwan's presidential elections, where voters overwhelmingly supported the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) and its candidate, Lai Ching-te.
Biden's statement aligns with the long-standing U.S. policy since 1979, when diplomatic recognition was shifted from Taipei to Beijing. Despite not supporting formal independence, the U.S. maintains unofficial relations with Taiwan and is a crucial ally and arms supplier.
The election of Lai Ching-te, who has vowed to resist Chinese pressure and simultaneously seek dialogue with Beijing, was closely monitored by both the U.S. and China. Beijing, which claims Taiwan as part of its territory and has not ruled out the use of force to assert control, had concerns about Lai potentially declaring a Republic of Taiwan. Lai, however, has stated that he will not pursue such a declaration.
Biden's comments are seen as an attempt to reassure Beijing, especially after previous remarks that suggested a potential U.S. defense of Taiwan if attacked, deviating from the traditional stance of "strategic ambiguity."
Ahead of the election, Washington had expressed that any interference in Taiwan's democratic process would be unacceptable. The U.S. has lauded Taiwan as a democratic success since its first direct presidential election in 1996.
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken congratulated Lai on his victory, reiterating the U.S. commitment to peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and the peaceful resolution of differences.
The Biden administration, seeking to smooth relations with China, has expressed concerns about escalating conflicts post-election. In November, Biden agreed to discuss security matters with Chinese President Xi Jinping in a bid to address these tensions.
In anticipation of China's response to the new administration in Taiwan, the U.S. plans to send an unofficial delegation to the island, continuing a tradition of such diplomatic gestures.
China's sensitivity to U.S.-Taiwan relations was evident in 2016 when then-President-elect Donald Trump's conversation with Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-wen sparked controversy, breaking with decades of diplomatic protocol established since President Jimmy Carter's recognition shift.
This recent development underscores the delicate balance in U.S.-China-Taiwan relations, highlighting the complexities of diplomatic engagements in the region.