US does not support Taiwan independence: Joe Biden
President Joe Biden clarified that the United States does not endorse the independence of Taiwan, responding to the election of William Lai Ching-te as the island nation's next president.
Biden made these remarks as he departed the White House for Camp David, following the release of election results in Taipei.
China, however, dismissed the election outcome, stating that it 'cannot represent 'mainstream' opinion in Taiwan.'
William Lai, the 64-year-old Vice President who led the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), secured an unprecedented third consecutive term for the party with 40.1% of the vote.
In a separate statement, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken extended congratulations to Dr. Lai Ching-te on his victory in Taiwan's presidential election. Blinken also commended the Taiwanese people for their participation in free and fair elections, highlighting the strength of their democratic system.
It's noteworthy that China regards Taiwan as its "breakaway province," while Taipei has maintained its insistence on independence since 1949 and maintains full diplomatic relations with 13 nations.
Following his election triumph, President-elect Lai emphasized the importance of 'exchanges and cooperation with China' based on the principles of 'dignity and parity.' He pledged to replace confrontation with dialogue in future interactions.
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