US Assistant Secretary of State Daniel Russel said on Thursday that the United States supports Taiwan’s participation in the International Police Organization (Interpol).
Russel said the US agrees that Taiwan is a net contributor to international law enforcement and is looking for ways to build on that. He was speaking during a hearing before the House Subcommittee on Asia and the Pacific.
The assistant secretary said the US has been active in helping to promote Taiwan's active participation in appropriate organizations, including the Interpol.
Taiwan became an Interpol member in 1961 under its official name the Republic of China but withdrew in 1984, when its name was changed into Taiwan, China against its will and when the People's Republic of China applied to become a member.
Earlier this month, a bipartisan bill has been introduced at the US House of Representatives to promote Taiwan’s participation as an observer in the Interpol.