Taiwan is preparing to navigate its relationship with China carefully during the upcoming U.S. presidential transition, with a senior security official expressing confidence that the United States will maintain its friendly stance towards Taiwan regardless of the outcome. National Security Bureau Director-General Tsai Ming-yen stated on Wednesday that Taiwan would work proactively to prevent any disruptions or “trouble” from China during this sensitive period. Tsai’s remarks come amidst growing concerns over Taiwan’s security, particularly given the sustained military pressure Taiwan has faced from China over the past five years, including frequent war games near its borders.
As the U.S. presidential election heats up, with Republican candidate Donald Trump neck and neck with Democrat Vice President Kamala Harris, Taiwan remains vigilant. Trump’s controversial campaign comments, which have included accusations that Taiwan should pay for its protection and claims that the island is stealing American semiconductor business, have raised alarms in Taiwan. However, Tsai expressed optimism that the U.S. would maintain its current strategy of supporting Taiwan and constraining China, regardless of which candidate takes office.
Tsai noted that Taiwan would continue to communicate with the outgoing administration, particularly regarding cooperation on key issues that would guide Taiwan’s next phase. Taiwan is also working with international partners to gather intelligence on China’s military movements and intentions to ensure that Beijing does not exploit the U.S. presidential transition to escalate tensions in the region. “Our focus is to prevent the Chinese communists from making trouble during this time of transition,” Tsai added.
The Taiwanese government remains committed to its stance on sovereignty, rejecting China’s claims of ownership over the island. Taiwan insists that only its people have the right to determine the island’s future. Despite the rising political tensions, Taiwan’s economy is closely tied to the U.S., with deepening economic ties and a robust arms supply agreement. Taiwan’s Economy Minister Kuo Jyh-huei reassured that Taiwan’s economic relations with the U.S. would remain strong regardless of who wins the election, downplaying fears of significant shifts in trade or military cooperation.
Taiwan’s government remains on high alert, closely monitoring the situation and preparing for any potential developments that may arise from the presidential transition. As Taiwan continues to face mounting pressure from China, it remains resolute in its commitment to protecting its sovereignty and strengthening its alliance with the United States.
