Abdelrahman
The U.S. State Department recently made a notable change to its website regarding its stance on Taiwan. The updated statement has elicited a strong reaction from China, which expressed outrage over the removal of language indicating that the United States does not endorse Taiwan’s independence.
According to Chinese officials, this modification sends a misleading message to those advocating for Taiwan’s independence and has prompted calls for the United States to “rectify its errors.” Previously, the State Department’s fact sheet on Taiwan-U.S. relations included the clear statement, “we do not support Taiwan independence.” This specific language was taken down in what the department described as a “routine” update.
A spokesperson from the U.S. indicated that the nation remains devoted to the “One China” policy, acknowledging formal diplomatic relations with China while not recognizing Taiwan in the same capacity.
China views Taiwan, which operates independently, as a breakaway province that it intends to reclaim, potentially using military force to do so. In contrast, many residents of Taiwan identify as part of a distinct nation but largely prefer to maintain the current situation, opting not to declare formal independence or pursue unification with China.
In addition to removing the aforementioned phrase, the most recent update to the fact sheet, which occurred last Thursday, also declares the U.S. will support Taiwan’s participation in international organizations “where appropriate.”
A representative from the American Institute in Taiwan, acting as the U.S. de facto embassy on the island, remarked that the updates were intended to provide the public with a clearer understanding of the United States’ unofficial relationship with Taiwan. The spokesperson reiterated that the U.S. opposes any unilateral changes to the existing status quo from either side.
Taiwan’s Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung voiced gratitude toward the U.S. for what he characterized as “positive, Taiwan-friendly language” following the updates.
However, during a subsequent press briefing, representatives from Beijing’s foreign ministry criticized the changes, labeling them as a “serious regression” in U.S. policy regarding Taiwan. Chinese spokesperson Guo Jiakun stated that this revision sends an erroneous and serious message to those pushing for Taiwan’s independence, characterizing it as part of the U.S.’s misguided strategy to use Taiwan as a means of containing China.
Guo also urged the United States to promptly correct its mistakes and adhere steadfastly to the One China principle.
