Former United States Secretary of State Mike Pompeo gave the keynote speech at the Formosa Republican Association (FRA) forum titled Towards Permanent World Peace: The Shared Mission of the U.S. and Taiwan on Monday.
Pompeo first emphasized, in regards to doubts that the United States would respond to Chinese activity in the Taiwan Strait, that their commitment to Taiwan is based on shared values and will never waver. He underscored that Chinese President Xi Jinping (習近平) will not determine the future of Asia, alleging that Xi wants the Taiwanese people to believe that they are alone. Pompeo said that not only will the U.S. react out of political responsibility but also out of moral responsibility to support the values shared by Taiwan and the United States.
Pompeo detailed that during his term as Secretary of State, U.S. President-elect Donald Trump had developed what he believes is an effective "model for deterrence" against enemies who seek to undermine the rules and values held by the Taiwanese and American people. He stressed that free countries in the Indo-Pacific region must send a clear message to Beijing that "Taiwan is free, that Taiwan is independent, and it’s going to stay that way. Nothing’s going to change it."
Pompeo highly praised Taiwan's industry, saying it punches far above its weight, and likewise highlighted the achievements of Taiwan’s free and independent government selected and elected by the people. He stated that Taiwan and the United States can collectively lead the free world, creating a bright future for all.