New Southbound Policy Portal

Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim (right) greets Susan M. Elliott, president and CEO of the U.S. National Committee on American Foreign Policy, Dec. 5 at the Presidential Office in Taipei City. (Courtesy of PO)
 

Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim met with delegations from the U.S. National Committee on American Foreign Policy and Australian Strategic Policy Institute Dec. 5 in Taipei City, welcoming their visits at a time of rapid geopolitical change, according to the Presidential Office.

During her meeting with representatives of the New York-based nonprofit organization, Hsiao said Taiwan is committed to safeguarding freedom and democracy, boosting its economy and trade, and contributing more to global technology supply chains. As a force for good in the world, the country looks forward to advancing its international participation and cooperation with other countries around the world, she added.

Citing President Lai Ching-te’s ongoing trip to Taiwan’s Pacific allies, the vice president thanked Marshall Islands, Palau and Tuvalu for voicing support of Taiwan and objecting to the country’s unjust exclusion in the international community. Hsiao concluded by saying that the government will continue to enhance its self-defense capabilities and defend the country’s democratic way of life.

Following the meeting, Hsiao received a group from the Canberra-headquartered think tank.

Taiwan and Australia are important partners that enjoy close cooperation across the board, Hsiao said, adding that Taiwan is the fifth-largest market for Australian goods and the largest purchaser of the Oceanian country’s energy products. Australia also plays a key role in the Global Cooperation and Training Framework, she noted.

The vice president took the opportunity to vow that Taiwan will continue working with Australia to protect shared values and deepen bilateral collaboration. (YCH-E)