The U.S. State Department has removed wording on its website indicating that it does not support Taiwan’s formal independence in what a department spokesperson says is a routine update.
While some content was removed, including the phrase “we do not support Taiwan independence”, additions were made as well to reference Taiwan’s cooperation with the U.S. in semiconductor development and support Taiwan’s membership in international organizations where applicable.
DPP Legislator Wang Ting-yu (王定宇) said that the United States defines Taiwan as a technologically advanced country that is both a democratic political entity and an important partner. Wang also noted the significant change from the U.S. saying it would support Taiwan participating in international organizations as an observer to a more direct support as a full member where applicable.
KMT Legislator Wang Hung-wei (王鴻薇) said the Trump administration is using various issues, such as tariffs and the situation along the Taiwan Strait, as bargaining chips with China, and speculated that the text would be reverted or changed to something else entirely following U.S.-China negotiations. Wang stated that issues, such as how tariffs could affect Taiwanese industries should be the focus, and countermeasures should be in place.
TPP Chairman Huang Kuo-chang (黃國昌) expressed gratitude to the U.S. government for its continued support of Taiwan and for strengthening relations. Huang said that the Trump administration is committed to maintaining Taiwan’s democracy and freedom, and supporting Taiwan’s self defense capabilities.
The U.S. is committed to maintaining peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait, according to a State Department spokesperson. The department expressed it would oppose any unilateral change to the status quo by either side, and encouraged cross-strait dialogue that could resolve differences. China’s Foreign Ministry has not yet responded to requests for comments regarding the issue.