US State Department’s Taiwan Policy Update Sparks Tensions with China

The United States State Department recently updated its website, removing previous language that explicitly stated it does not support Taiwan independence. This change occurs approximately three weeks following the inauguration of US President Donald Trump for his second term. The updated fact sheet maintains Washington's opposition to any unilateral changes by either Taiwan or China, while also emphasizing the importance of dialogue between the two nations. The update has stirred tensions with China, which views such actions as endorsing Taiwan's separate status.

China swiftly responded to the State Department's update, urging the US to "correct its mistakes." Beijing perceives this revision as a significant regression in US-China relations. Guo Jiakun, spokesperson for China's Foreign Ministry, stated that these changes "send a seriously wrong message to Taiwan independence separatist forces," reinforcing China's regular denunciation of international recognition of Taiwan.

"This is yet another example of the United States' stubborn adherence to the erroneous policy of 'using Taiwan to suppress China'. We urge the United States side to immediately rectify its mistakes," said Guo Jiakun, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson.

Despite these tensions, the US State Department clarified that the website update was routine and reaffirmed its commitment to peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. A spokesperson stated:

"The United States remains committed to its one China policy."

"The United States is committed to preserving peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait."

The State Department's stance does not take a position on Taiwan's sovereignty but acknowledges China's view on the matter. The spokesperson further emphasized:

"We oppose any unilateral changes to the status quo from either side. We support cross-Strait dialogue, and we expect cross-Strait differences to be resolved by peaceful means, free from coercion, in a manner acceptable to people on both sides of the Strait."

Taiwanese officials have expressed gratitude for what they interpret as a positive shift in US-Taiwan relations. Taiwan Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung praised the update as a supportive gesture from the United States.