The Australia-U.S. Ministerial Consultations joint statement expressing the intent of both countries to strengthen ties with Taiwan is warmly welcomed by the government and people, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Sept. 17.
Issued by U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin and Australian counterparts Foreign Minister Marise Payne and Defense Minister Peter Dutton the day before, the statement underscores Taiwan’s key role in the Indo-Pacific while stating that the two countries are willing to enhance relations with the country as a critical partner and leading democracy.
The four also emphasized backing for Taiwan’s meaningful participation in international organizations, as well as reiterating continued support for cross-strait peace and greater donor coordination with Taiwan in the Pacific.
In response, the MOFA expressed gratitude for the countries’ long-standing friendship with Taiwan. This is evidenced by the ongoing commitment of the U.S. to the Taiwan Relations Act, Six Assurances and Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison’s support for Taiwan’s inclusion in the World Health Assembly, the ministry added.
According to the MOFA, the government will continue working with like-minded partners such as Australia and the U.S. to safeguard freedom, democracy, human rights and the rule of law while ensuring peace, stability and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific.
In a tweet on its official Twitter account, the MOFA said: “We welcome the #AUSMIN joint statement in which #Australia & the #US re-emphasized #Taiwan’s important role in the #IndoPacific; stated intent to strengthen ties with Taiwan; emphasized support for Taiwan’s meaningful participation in international organizations; reiterated support for a peaceful resolution of cross-strait issues; & expressed a shared commitment to enhance donor coordination with #Taiwan in the #Pacific. We’ll keep partnering with #Australia & the #US in ensuring an open, inclusive & resilient #IndoPacific.” (YCH-E)
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