BEIJING – The U.S. has opened talks with Taiwan to negotiate a trade agreement. This is a sign that the United States supports Taiwan’s self-ruled democracy, claimed by China’s Communist Party.
The announcement was made Thursday after Beijing conducted military drills, including firing missiles into Taiwan’s waters to intimidate it. This followed a visit of Nancy Pelosi (the highest ranking member of U.S. government) to Taiwan over 25years.
The U.S. Trade Representative announced Thursday’s agreement without mentioning tension with Beijing, but stated that the negotiations were intended to improve trade and regulatory cooperation. This would lead to closer official interaction.
The United States does not have official relations with Taiwan, but has extensive informal contact through the American Institute in Taiwan. Federal law obligates Washington to ensure that Taiwan has all the necessary resources to protect itself.
Taiwan & China were separated in 1949. Although the island has never been a part of the People’s Republic of China 1949, the Communist Party claims it is obliged to join the mainland by force.
The talks will also cover agriculture, labor and digital technology.
