Several US officials have voiced their support for Taiwan’s bid to join the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP). The TPP is a US-led regional trade pact that involves several Pacific Rim countries. The officials were attending a reception in Washington DC on Thursday held to mark the Republic of China’s National Day. The Republic of China is Taiwan’s official name.
US Congressman Ed Royce said that Taiwan’s accession to the TPP will guarantee the development of trade between Taiwan and the US. He also said that he plans to push for US congressional support for Taiwan’s bid to join Interpol.
Meanwhile, US Senator Joe Manchin said that he hopes US-Taiwan relations will be long lasting. He said that Taiwan and the US share the goal of using advanced strategies to enter the international arena.
US Representative Ileana Ros-Lehtinen said that it is important for the US to provide political and economic support to Taiwan as Taiwan faces pressure from China. She said that the US must respect the Taiwan Relations Act and the Six Assurances, the guidelines used in conducting relations between the two sides.