US says China trying to discourage states, businesses from engaging with Taiwan
TAIPEI, June 25 (Reuters) – China is reaching out to U.S. states and private firms to discourage ties with Taiwan and mischaracterize U.S. policy, but ties with Taiwan should be expanded, three U.S. government departments said in a joint letter.
Despite the lack of formal diplomatic ties, the United States is Taiwan’s most important international supporter and arms supplier, drawing sustained ire from Beijing, which claims the independently governed island as its own territory.
The two letters from the U.S. Departments of State, Agriculture and Commerce are addressed to governors, CEOs or business leaders. These documents, dated June 16, were released by the de facto US embassy in Taiwan late Wednesday.
Similarly worded letters state that China’s embassy and consulates regularly contact local government offices or private businesses in the United States to “discourage relations with Taiwan.”
“In doing so, they often mischaracterize US policy, for example, by claiming that Washington has previously accepted Beijing’s specific position towards Taiwan,” both letters say.
The letters state that if government departments or companies are contacted by Chinese officials “putting pressure on you,” they should contact the State Department.
China’s foreign ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
The United States does not officially take any position on Taiwan’s sovereignty under Washington’s “One China” policy.
Taiwan government welcomes letter and show of support from US
“Although Beijing continues to intensify its pressure on Taiwan and pressure international businesses, the US government has made clear its willingness to deepen cooperation with Taiwan,” the state department said in a statement. The statement was included.
The letters say Taiwan plays an important role in the global trading system and that U.S. states and businesses have had strong ties to the island for decades.
“Taiwan is a vital U.S. partner and a democratic success story,” the letter to governors said. “We hope you will take advantage of all the opportunities offered by our shared values and strong relationship with Taiwan.”
(Reporting by Ben Blanchard; Editing by Thomas Derpinghaus)
