President Tsai lauds robust Taiwan-US ties, eyes greater cooperation

2018/06/15

President Tsai Ing-wen said June 13 that Taiwan is committed to close defense and security cooperation with the U.S. so as to safeguard regional peace and stability.
 
 China’s campaign to suppress the nation’s international space and staging of military exercises near Taiwan represent a unilateral attempt to alter the cross-strait status quo, Tsai said. In the face of these challenges, Taiwan is grateful for the support of the U.S. and other like-minded countries in the global arena, she added.
 
 U.S. efforts to uphold justice and speak up against Chinese pressure on international airlines to change their designation of Taiwan are also deeply appreciated, the president said.
 
 Tsai made the remarks while receiving American Institute in Taiwan Chairman James Moriarty at the Office of the President in Taipei City. Moriarty is visiting June 11-16 for the inauguration of the new AIT office complex in Taipei City’s Neihu District and to meet with officials to discuss issues of mutual concern.
 
 According to the president, strong defense and security cooperation between the two sides is evidenced by the U.S.’s announcement of a major arms package last June as well as the U.S. Department of State’s decision in April to grant a marketing license for American companies to sell technology allowing for domestic submarine development.
 
 Tsai also described the unveiling of the US$255.6 million AIT complex the previous day as a testament to the long-standing and enduring Taiwan-U.S. friendship as well as a major milestone in the advancement of this partnership.
 
 Echoing the president’s sentiments, Moriarty said that the AIT office is not simply a building but a symbol of the closeness of the two sides’ relationship. It also highlights the U.S. commitment to deepening ties going forward, he added.
 
 According to the chairman, the U.S. will continue its efforts to make sure Taiwan has a strong voice on the international stage. It will also work to address the increasing pressure facing Taiwan and help maintain regional peace and stability, he said.

Source: Taiwan Today (https://taiwantoday.tw/news.php?unit=2&post=136190)