The comprehensive statement of support for Taiwan by the White House following the government’s recent termination of diplomatic relations with El Salvador is sincerely appreciated, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Aug. 24.
China is intensifying efforts to suppress Taiwan’s international space, the MOFA said. The government stands fast in the face of such pressure and will continue protecting the nation’s freedom, democracy, dignity and sovereignty, as well as the people’s human rights, the ministry added.
The response follows the U.S. release highlighting El Salvador’s establishment of official ties with China and expressing “grave concern” over the “receptiveness” of the Central American nation to “China’s apparent interference in the domestic politics of a Western hemisphere country,” as well as the destabilization of the cross-strait relationship.
According to the MOFA, Taiwan is a responsible member of the international community and will not engage in dollar nor debt-trap diplomacy. The government remains committed to strengthening cooperation with allies and like-minded countries, the ministry added.
Similar statements from the U.S. Department of State and American Institute in Taiwan were also welcomed by the MOFA. The government and people of Taiwan are deeply grateful for this backing, the ministry said.
The same day, the Office of the President thanked the White House and U.S. lawmakers for consistently voicing support of the country and said Taiwan is resolute in defending its freedom, democracy, dignity and enviable way of life.
This position will never be abandoned in the face of China’s intimidation, the Office of the President said, adding that the government will keep bolstering Taiwan’s defensive capabilities while promoting it as a force for good and regional peace, stability and prosperity. (KWS-E)
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