Biden Affirm US Stance on Taiwan Independence

On Saturday, U.S. President Joe Biden underscored the United States’ support to the independence of Taiwan after the announcement of re-election of Lai Ching-te. He has been successful to secure the position for third time despite opposition from China.
After assuming office, he steadfastly shared his approach of resisting external Chinese influence and expressing a commitment to both counteracting Beijing’s pressures and engaging in diplomatic dialogues.
President Biden expressed the United States’ non-endorsement of Taiwan’s independence following Saturday’s elections
The United States, having shifted diplomatic recognition from Taipei to Beijing in 1979, maintains its stance against a formal declaration of independence by Taiwan. Nevertheless, the U.S. sustains informal relations with the self-governed island and serves as its primary supporter and arms provider.
Concerns arise from Beijing, which has consistently refused to relinquish the option of using force to assert control over Taiwan.
President Biden has previously attracted disapproval from the Chinese government due to remarks hinting at potential U.S. intervention in defense of Taiwan in the event of an attack, deviating from the traditional U.S. stance characterized by “strategic ambiguity.”
The comments made by President Biden seem to be a deliberate effort aimed at providing reassurance to Beijing.
However, notwithstanding this, Washington issued a warning just hours before the commencement of the polls, declaring it unacceptable for any nation to interfere in the election process.
Taiwan, which is claimed by neighboring China, has notably emerged as a democratic success story since its inaugural direct presidential election in 1996, marking the culmination of protracted struggles against authoritarian governance and martial law.
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken extended congratulations to Lai Ching-te on his electoral victory, emphasizing the United States’ commitment to preserving cross-strait peace and stability and advocating for the peaceful resolution of differences without coercion or pressure. Blinken affirmed the U.S.’s anticipation of collaborating with Lai and leaders from all political parties in Taiwan to enhance their enduring unofficial relationship, in accordance with the U.S. one China policy.
Within the Biden administration, there has been an apprehension that the electoral process, transitional phase, and the establishment of a new administration could potentially escalate tensions with Beijing.
President Biden has actively engaged in efforts to improve diplomatic relations with China, exemplified by his commitment to address security differences with President Xi Jinping during a summit held in California in November.
Concurrently, Taiwan anticipates increased pressure from China, particularly in the form of military maneuvers near the island following its elections. Notably, China has consistently maintained its stance on not renouncing the use of force to assert control over Taiwan.
In a demonstration of support for Taiwan’s government, President Biden is planning to dispatch an unofficial delegation to the self-governed island
This delegation is expected to comprise former high-ranking American officials, although specific names have not been finalized. It is worth noting that similar delegations have been sent to Taiwan in the past.
This move by President Biden echoes historical sensitivities, as evidenced by China’s displeasure in 2016 when then-President-elect Donald Trump engaged in a phone conversation with President Tsai Ing-wen of Taiwan. This marked the first direct communication between U.S. and Taiwan leaders since President Jimmy Carter’s diplomatic recognition shift from Taiwan to China in 1979.