US Vice President Mike Pence says that the US and Taiwan will stand together to defend freedom. Pence was speaking at the Washington think tank the Wilson Center on Thursday.
In his remarks, Pence said that Taiwan plays a crucial role in global trade and stands as a beacon of both Chinese culture and democracy. Pence said the international community should remember that relations with Taiwan maintain peace, both in Taiwan and in the surrounding region. He said the US believes Taiwan embraces democracy and shows all ethnic Chinese people a better way forward.
Pence reiterated the United States’ commitment to the policies that form the basis of its ties with Beijing. But he said that the US will also honor the Taiwan Relations Act, the basis for the United States’ relations with Taiwan in the absence of formal ties.
Pence criticized Beijing’s use of checkbook diplomacy to poach Taiwan’s allies and pressure Taiwan’s democratic system. He also expressed concern over Beijing’s suppression of religious freedom and human rights, its stealing of intellectual property, and its military provocations in the surrounding region.
The foreign ministry has thanked the US for its support. The ministry says that no matter how Beijing tries to apply pressure on Taiwan in the international community, the government will not back down. The ministry says Taiwan will join with the US and other friendly nations in defending democracy and a rules-based international order.