In response to Lai’s -motherland theory-, Assistant Secretary of State for Asia and the Pacific- Ask Taiwan. The US-China policy has not changed._1

Posted on by szygift.comComments Off on In response to Lai’s -motherland theory-, Assistant Secretary of State for Asia and the Pacific- Ask Taiwan. The US-China policy has not changed._1

In a recent interview, Daniel Kritenbrink, the U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs, shared his thoughts on Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te’s recent comments about the “motherland,” which have ignited significant discussion. Kritenbrink stressed the importance of consulting officials in Taipei for a complete understanding of Lai’s statements. He reaffirmed that the United States’ “One China” policy remains unchanged and that the U.S. opposes any unilateral actions from either side that could alter the status quo. Kritenbrink emphasized that America’s core interests focus on preserving peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait.

During a background briefing in anticipation of Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s trip to Laos for ASEAN meetings, Kritenbrink answered media questions about President Lai’s remarks. He reiterated the United States’ commitment to its One China policy, which is anchored in the Taiwan Relations Act, the three U.S.-China joint communiqués, and the Six Assurances.

Kritenbrink made it clear that the United States does not endorse Taiwan’s independence and firmly opposes any unilateral changes to the existing situation across the Taiwan Strait. He expressed hope that any differences between the two sides could be addressed peacefully, stating, “Our primary interest is maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, and this will continue to be a key focus for us going forward.”

On October 5, during National Day festivities, President Lai noted that it would be misleading to refer to the People’s Republic of China as the motherland of the Republic of China (Taiwan), especially given that the PRC had just celebrated its 75th anniversary on October 1. He argued that considering the age factor, the Republic of China could actually be viewed as the homeland for those over 75 living in the PRC. Furthermore, Lai pointed out that the Republic of China has been firmly established in Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen, and Matsu for 75 years, implying that further debate on this relationship might be unnecessary. He added, however, that if anyone were to send congratulations for the PRC’s anniversary, such messages should be precise and avoid the term “motherland.”