Biden asserts that the United States does not endorse the idea of Taiwan gaining independence.

 On Saturday, U.S. President Joe Biden affirmed that the United States does not back Taiwan's pursuit of independence. This statement followed the reelection of the Democratic Progressive Party's presidential candidate, Lai Ching-te, who, despite Chinese opposition, secured a third term and pledged to resist Beijing while expressing a willingness to engage in dialogue.

 Biden, in response to inquiries about Saturday's elections, emphasized, "Our stance is against endorsing independence." Prior to the commencement of voting, Washington issued a caution, asserting that any external interference in the election would be deemed unacceptable. Taiwan, a nearby island contested by China, has witnessed a democratic transformation since its inaugural direct presidential election in 1996, marking the triumph over years of opposition to authoritarian governance and martial law.



Despite the absence of formal diplomatic relations with Taiwan, the United States remains a crucial supporter and provider of arms to the island. Secretary of State Antony Blinken extended congratulations to Lai Ching-te on his triumph, affirming the U.S. dedication to upholding peace and stability in the cross-strait region, and the peaceful resolution of disputes without coercion or pressure. The Biden administration has expressed concerns that the electoral process, transition, and the inception of a new administration could heighten tensions with Beijing. President Biden has actively sought to foster better relations with China, engaging in discussions to address security disparities during a summit with President Xi Jinping in California last November.

Anticipating potential pressure from China on the newly elected president post-election, Taiwan's government foresees military maneuvers near the island this spring. Two senior government officials highlighted China's historical stance of not ruling out the use of force to assert control over Taiwan.

In a gesture of solidarity, President Biden intends to send an unofficial delegation to Taiwan, as confirmed by a senior administration official. The delegation, likely comprising former high-ranking American officials (names pending confirmation), aims to demonstrate support for the self-governed island. Similar delegations have been dispatched to Taiwan in previous instances.

Notably, in 2016, China expressed displeasure when then-President-elect Donald Trump engaged in a phone conversation with President Tsai Ing-wen of Taiwan—a groundbreaking exchange, as it marked the first communication between U.S. and Taiwanese leaders since President Jimmy Carter shifted diplomatic recognition from Taiwan to China in 1979.

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