President Tsai Ing-wen said Jan. 12 that Taiwan will continue working with its like-minded partners in the U.S. and Japan to safeguard the country’s freedom, democracy and sovereignty while further contributing to the international community.
Relations between Taiwan and the U.S. have grown from strength to strength, Tsai said. This is evidenced by expanded economic and security cooperation over the past three years, with the government promoting a more open, diverse and institutionalized relationship following the 40th anniversary of the Taiwan Relations Act last year, she added.
Tsai made the remarks while meeting with American Institute in Taiwan Director Brent Christensen at the Presidential Office in Taipei City after securing re-election in the Jan. 11 ballot.
According to Tsai, the government will continue working with the U.S. to strengthen Taiwan’s national defense capabilities, bolster industrial supply chain integration and deepen bilateral trade relations, as well as help advance democratic development throughout the Indo-Pacific.
In response, Christensen congratulated Tsai on her victory, saying the U.S. will continue to work with Taiwan to further investment opportunities and support regional peace and stability.
President Tsai expressed similar sentiments in a meeting with Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association Chairman Mitsuo Ohashi the same day.
Tsai said Japan is a vital partner for Taiwan in diplomatic cooperation and people-to-people exchanges. The government is looking forward to further expanding bilateral collaboration across areas such as business, culture, sports and trade, she added.
Ohashi also congratulated Tsai and expressed his hope that Taiwan-Japan relations will reach new heights in the years to come. (YCH-E)
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