President Tsai Ing-wen said Aug. 25 that Taiwan and the U.S. will work together to further promote the shared values of freedom, democracy and human rights as part of efforts to continue shaping the future of the Asia-Pacific.
Taiwan and the U.S. enjoy a longstanding, strong and close collaborative relationship spanning many issues, Tsai said. Security is one of these and as such, the military deployment of the U.S. in the region reflects the mutually beneficial partnership between the two sides, she added.
Tsai made the remarks while meeting with U.S. Reps. Rob Wittman and Madeleine Bordallo at the Office of the President in Taipei City. The pair wrapped up a two-day trip to Taiwan Aug. 26 during which they visited key government agencies and were brought up to speed on the latest developments in areas including defense, economy and trade, regional relations and cross-strait ties.
According to the president, Taiwan is a responsible stakeholder in advancing regional security and the government is boosting investment in national defense and bolstering the operational capabilities of the armed forces. Such a commitment is reflected in the indigenous shipbuilding and fighter jet development projects, as well as programs aimed at upgrading cybersecurity readiness, she said.
Tsai also expressed her gratitude to Wittman and Bordallo for their ongoing support of Taiwan in the U.S. Congress and said their trip will enhance communication and mutual trust between the two sides.
In response, Wittman said Congress values Taiwan-U.S. relations and appreciates the government’s effort in promoting regional stability and prosperity. He expects the two sides to further expand exchanges and identify more opportunities for strengthening economic and strategic cooperation.
Wittman, chairman of the Seapower and Projection Forces Subcommittee under the House Armed Services Committee, is a firm supporter of enhanced security cooperation between Taiwan and the U.S. Bordallo, a member of the Congressional Taiwan Caucus, plays a central role in supporting House legislation involving Taiwan and has visited the country eight times. (SFC-E)