The head of the Pentagon, Lloyd Austin, on Saturday, December 4, announced the readiness of the United States to support the defensive potential of Taiwan. In addition, Washington will resist any forceful pressure on the island's population. He said this during a speech at a forum organized by the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation.
"[The US] is committed ... to supporting Taiwan's ability to defend itself and reserves the right to resist any coercion by force that threatens the people of Taiwan," the Defense Minister said.
Earlier, on December 2, a meeting was held between US Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman and Secretary General of the European External Relations Service Stefano Sannino. Following the talks, the sides noted the importance of diplomatic contacts with China, especially in sectors where constructive cooperation is possible. At the same time, China's actions in the Taiwan Strait were called undermining peace in the region and negatively affecting the security and prosperity of the United States and the EU.
In October, the President of the United States Joe Biden discussed Taiwan with the President of the People's Republic of China Xi Jinping. He confirmed the commitment of the parties to comply with the Taiwan agreement.
The United States severed diplomatic relations with Taiwan in 1979 and established them with the PRC. Recognizing the "one China" policy, Washington at the same time continues to maintain contacts with the Taipei administration and supplies weapons to the island.
