Taipei, Taiwan: Taiwan’s government has welcomed the US State Department’s decision to update its Taiwan relations fact sheet, removing a previous line that explicitly stated the US does not support Taiwanese independence. The change has reignited discussions on US-Taiwan relations and drawn a sharp response from China.
Fact Sheet Update and US Stance
The fact sheet, issued by the Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs, previously read:
“We oppose any unilateral changes to the status quo from either side; we do not support Taiwan independence; and we expect cross-strait differences to be resolved by peaceful means.”
In the revised version published on Thursday, the phrase “we do not support Taiwan independence” was removed. The updated text now states:
“We oppose any unilateral changes to the status quo from either side. We expect cross-strait differences to be resolved by peaceful means, free from coercion, in a manner acceptable to the people on both sides of the Strait.”
According to the American Institute in Taiwan (AIT), the changes are part of routine updates. A spokesperson for AIT stated, “As is routine, the fact sheet was updated to inform the general public about our unofficial relationship with Taiwan.”
Taiwan’s Response
Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs welcomed the change, with Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung expressing gratitude for what he described as “positive, Taiwan-friendly wordings.” Lin also thanked the US for its continued support through the Taiwan Relations Act and the Six Assurances, which bolster Taiwan’s self-defense, economic stability, and cross-strait peace.
China’s Reaction
Beijing has frequently condemned any actions it perceives as US support for Taiwan’s independence. China considers Taiwan a breakaway province and has consistently warned against foreign interference in its internal affairs.
Meanwhile, the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) accused the US of engaging in “risky behavior” after two US naval vessels, the USS Ralph Johnson and the USNS Bowditch, transited the Taiwan Strait between Monday and Wednesday. The PLA monitored their movements and reiterated its stance on protecting China’s sovereignty.
Historical Context
Since severing official ties with Taiwan in 1979 and recognizing the People’s Republic of China (PRC), the US has maintained a delicate balance in its policy. While it does not officially recognize Taiwan as an independent state, it continues to provide military and diplomatic support under existing agreements.
This is not the first time the US has revised the fact sheet. In May 2022, under President Joe Biden’s administration, similar language was removed but reinstated a month later following protests from China.
