The positive statement recently released to the media by the U.S. Department of State following passage of the Taiwan Travel Act is sincerely appreciated by the government, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said March 2.
“We consider Taiwan to be a vital partner, a democratic success story and a force for good in the world. Taiwan shares our values, has earned our respect and continues to merit our strong support,” the U.S. Department of State said.
Passed by the U.S. Senate Feb. 28 and the U.S. House of Representatives Jan. 9, the act awaits the signature of U.S. President Donald J. Trump before becoming law. It states that it should be the policy of the U.S. to authorize officials at all levels to visit Taiwan to meet with their counterparts and allow high-level officials from Taiwan to enter the U.S. under conditions that demonstrate appropriate respect for the dignity of such officials.
The act further states that it should be the policy of the U.S. government to encourage the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in the U.S., and any other body established by Taiwan, to conduct business in the U.S. This includes activities involving participation by members of the U.S. Congress, officials of federal, state or local governments of the U.S. or any high-level Taiwan official.
According to the MOFA, Taiwan has received frequent visits by senior U.S. officials in recent years for exchanges on issues of overlapping concern.
The government will continue maintaining close communications with the U.S. so as to further strengthen the collaborative partnership for mutual benefits while promoting regional peace, prosperity and stability, the MOFA added. (SFC-E)
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