Journalists believe Biden may be referring to the “One China” policy under which it recognizes China, not Taipei. But also honors Washington’s Taiwan Relations Act, which says that the US must help Taiwan defend itself.
And the Act makes it clear that the U.S. diplomatic ties with Beijing rest upon the expectation that China will maintain a peaceful relationship with Taiwan. In other words, China agrees not to attack the island democracy.
Taiwan is often left out of full participation in global organizations. It was ousted from the United Nations after Beijing entered. And it has been asking for its seat back since 1971.
US national security adviser Jake Sullivan said the US will “stand up and speak out” over any actions that may “undermine peace and stability” across the Taiwan Strait.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that the U.S. commitment to Taiwan remains “rock solid.”
Taiwan has a decades-old status as an independent democracy. But there is no doubt that Beijing considers the island part of the Chinese Communist regime.
