US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo says that Taiwan is not part of China. Pompeo made the remark during a radio interview that aired Thursday morning. Pompeo says the US government has recognized Taiwan as an entity independent of China since 35 years ago, during Ronald Reagan’s administration.
He says that supporting Taiwan transcends party differences, and that both Republicans and Democrats know that Taiwan is an outstanding democracy.
The foreign ministry has thanked Pompeo for his comments. It says that Pompeo’s recognition of Taiwan’s sovereignty is factual and represents the status quo.
The Presidential Office has echoed the foreign ministry’s sentiments, saying that the country’s sovereignty is “an undeniable fact.” The Presidential Office said Taiwan is a friendly and democratic country that pursues peace. It says that Taiwan is open to maintaining stable ties with China on the condition of parity and mutual respect.