President Lai Ching-te received James Moriarty, former chair of Arlington-headquartered American Institute in Taiwan, at the Presidential Office June 14 in Taipei City, reiterating government commitment to enhancing Taiwan’s self-defense capabilities to safeguard freedom and democracy.
Lai said Taiwan will deepen relations with the U.S. to ensure peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, as well as actively work with like-minded partners to overcome global challenges such as pandemics and extreme weather events.
According to the president, Taiwan is facing growing authoritarianism and is grateful to the U.S. for fulfilling its commitments under the Taiwan Relations Act and Six Assurances. He said the government looks forward to working with the U.S. to defend peace, stability, freedom and democracy in the region.
Equally importantly, Taiwan will continue to fulfill its responsibility as a member of the global community and contribute to mitigating climate change and other global challenges, he added.
Lai also thanked Moriarty for his longstanding support for Taiwan and expansion of Taiwan-U.S. ties during his term at AIT, and his continued concern for Taiwan after stepping down from the role. In response, Moriarty said his deep affection and commitment to Taiwan reflect those of the American people, and both sides hold common interests and values.
The former AIT chair praised Lai for the election campaign, winning the people’s confidence and being elected to the highest office in Taiwan. Despite challenges at home and abroad, global democracies like the U.S. and Taiwan will continue forwards toward a brighter future, he added. (SFC-E)
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from Taiwan Today – Top News