The United States, signaling a clear stance towards China, opposes any external interference or influence in the upcoming presidential and parliamentary elections in Taiwan, according to a senior official from the Biden administration on Wednesday. The January 13 elections in Taiwan coincide with a sensitive period in US-Chinese relations following the re-establishment of military ties between President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping in November.
The official, speaking anonymously to reporters, emphasized that Washington maintains neutrality in the elections, harbors no preference for any candidate, and stands against external interference in Taiwan's democratic process. Despite lacking formal diplomatic ties, the United States remains a crucial international supporter and arms supplier for Taiwan. The elections unfold amid escalating verbal confrontations between Taiwan and China, with the latter asserting territorial claims over the island despite Taiwanese objections.
The Biden administration aims to uphold Taiwan's existing self-governance status quo. The recent incident involving a Chinese satellite flying over Taiwan and triggering a false air raid alert has fueled concerns about China's intentions, adding tension in the lead-up to the elections. The anonymous official asserted that any military pressure or coercion from Beijing would make it the provocateur, disrupting peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, which could have severe global economic repercussions.
Post-elections, the United States plans to send an unofficial delegation to Taiwan for direct communications, likely including former high-ranking American officials. The official stressed that this move aligns with the one-China policy and reflects confidence in Taiwan's democratic processes. Meanwhile, White House Deputy National Security Adviser Jon Finer held discussions with Liu Jianchao, head of China's Communist Party International Liaison Department, covering various global issues, including Taiwan and the South China Sea.
In separate virtual talks, senior US and Chinese officials discussed cooperation in law enforcement, focusing on issues such as combating the illicit flow of synthetic drugs like fentanyl.
