Summary
- Taiwan’s APEC representative invites President Biden to visit soon.
- The White House describes the interaction as “just a handshake.”
- Taiwan actively participates in the APEC summit in Peru.
Lin Hsin-i Thanks President Biden at APEC Summit
Meeting during the APEC summit in Lima, Taiwan’s representative Lin Hsin-i expressed gratitude to President Joe Biden for his contributions to strengthening U.S.-Taiwan relations over the past four years, Taiwan’s delegation stated.
Invitation Extended to President Biden
Lin, who leads the government-backed Taiwania Capital investment fund and formerly served as Taiwan’s economy minister, extended a warm invitation to President Biden. He encouraged Biden to visit Taiwan at his earliest convenience, the delegation noted.
Trudeau Observes the Conversation
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau listened attentively to the exchange, the statement added, acknowledging his interest in the discussion.
Biden Administration Minimizes the Interaction
A Biden administration official downplayed the meeting, describing it as merely “a handshake” that occurred in the plenary room.
White House Silent on Potential Visit
The White House did not immediately comment on whether President Biden, who leaves office on January 20 as Donald Trump assumes the presidency, plans to visit Taiwan.
High-Level Interactions at APEC Summits
Taiwan and the United States have engaged in high-level discussions during previous APEC summits, including the one in San Francisco last year, highlighting their ongoing diplomatic engagement.
Lin Meets Secretary Blinken to Strengthen Partnership
On Thursday, Lin met with Secretary of State Antony Blinken to discuss enhancing the Taiwan-U.S. partnership across various areas. Taiwan’s delegation emphasized their shared commitment to strengthening ties.
Discussions on Peace and Stability
Lin and Blinken deliberated on measures to ensure peace and stability in the region. They also explored ways to foster prosperity and development for Taiwan and its allies, Taiwan’s delegation reported, describing the meeting as warm and productive.
State Department Remains Silent
The State Department did not immediately issue a response or comment regarding the discussions between Lin and Blinken.
Blinken Highlights Taiwan’s Role in Regional Connectivity
In a speech on Friday, Blinken acknowledged Taiwan’s collaboration with the United States, Australia, Japan, and New Zealand. He emphasized their joint efforts to install undersea cables, improving digital connectivity for Pacific Island nations.
U.S.-Taiwan Relations Remain Strong
The United States continues to serve as Taiwan’s most crucial international supporter and primary defense equipment supplier. Despite cutting formal diplomatic ties in 1979 in favor of Beijing, Washington maintains significant informal relations with Taipei.
Taiwan’s Government Rejects Beijing’s Claims
Taiwan’s democratically elected government firmly opposes Beijing’s sovereignty claims. Leaders assert that only the people of Taiwan can decide the island’s future.
Gratitude for U.S. Support
Lin’s remarks underscored Taiwan’s appreciation for the Biden administration’s robust support over the last four years.
Invitation Signals Strengthening Ties
Lin’s invitation to President Biden highlighted Taiwan’s commitment to fostering deeper engagement with the United States.
Trudeau’s Presence Reflects Broader Interest
Trudeau’s attention to the exchange underscored the growing international focus on U.S.-Taiwan interactions.
Administration Downplays Geopolitical Implications
By minimizing the significance of the handshake, the Biden administration sought to avoid amplifying the geopolitical implications of the interaction.
Lack of Clarity on Biden’s Travel Plans
The absence of confirmation from the White House on Biden’s potential Taiwan visit leaves uncertainties about future U.S.-Taiwan engagements.
Partnership Discussions Reflect Shared Goals
Lin and Blinken’s discussions demonstrated a mutual commitment to strengthening their partnership and addressing regional security and economic challenges.
Taiwan’s Role in Pacific Initiatives
Blinken’s remarks on Taiwan’s contribution to regional connectivity showcased its importance in U.S.-led initiatives in the Pacific region.
Commitment to Sovereignty and Democracy
Taiwan’s rejection of Beijing’s claims and emphasis on self-determination reinforce its dedication to preserving its sovereignty and democratic values.
