Taiwan sees US support unchanged no matter who wins election – March 28, 2024

Taiwan, which China claims as its own territory, has received strong support from the Trump administration, including high-profile visits and arms sales, which have continued under President Joe Biden’s administration.

In a report to lawmakers, Taiwan’s Foreign Ministry noted that while the outcome of the U.S. election was uncertain, there was cross-party support for the island.

Taiwan will continue to have balanced exchanges with both sides, but should be wary of how issues between Taiwan and China could play a role in the election, the ministry added.

“With the US elections in full swing, we must be careful that cross-Taiwan Strait issues are not manipulated as a political issue of defense and offense,” the ministry said, without elaborating.

U.S. Congressman Jack Bergman, a Republican who serves on the House Armed Services Committee and chairs the Intelligence and Special Operations Subcommittee, said his delegation was there to show that Congress continues to support Taiwan.

“We will continue to reassure our colleagues that this strategic relationship is essential for the future security of the region,” Bergman said.

“This includes a strong maritime strategy for Taiwan and how we can work together toward shared goals to counter China in its increasingly aggressive actions in the region.”

Bergman, who is joined by Democratic Congressmen Donald Norcross and Jimmy Panetta, said they would meet with “American personnel” while in Taiwan, but did not specify whether these were military or civilian personnel.

The United States is Taiwan’s main arms supplier and international supporter, despite the lack of formal diplomatic ties.

Taiwan’s democratically elected government rejects China’s claims of sovereignty and says only the island’s people can decide its future.