Former Vice President Mike Pence visited Taiwan and emphasized that the United States will not abandon its allies in the Pacific. He urged the incoming Trump administration to renew its commitment to supporting Taiwan’s defense. Pence also called for negotiations on a free trade pact with Taiwan, which the government in Taipei has long sought.
Pence highlighted the bipartisan agreement in Washington that China represents a significant strategic and economic threat to the U.S. and its allies. He expressed deep respect and support for the people of Taiwan, despite the strained relationship between Trump and Pence during Trump’s first term.
Taiwan does not have formal relations with the U.S., but Washington is legally obligated to provide support for Taiwan’s defense. China has increased its military pressure on the island and refuses to engage with Taiwan’s president, Lai Ching-te, whom they consider a “separatist.”
Lai has expressed willingness to engage in talks with Beijing but rejects China’s sovereignty claims over Taiwan, believing that only the Taiwanese people should determine their future. Overall, Pence’s visit highlighted the continued importance of U.S. support for Taiwan in the face of rising tensions with China.
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