U.S. State Department Rejects China's Criticism of AIT Director Greene, Affirms U.S. Stance on Taiwan

The U.S. State Department has firmly rejected criticism from China's Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) regarding remarks made by American Institute in Taiwan (AIT) Director Raymond Greene. The TAO had accused Greene of spreading 'erroneous statements' after he suggested Taiwan should develop a drone 'hive' defense system and that the U.S. would be a partner in this endeavor.

Responding to a query from CNA, a State Department spokesperson stated via email that the Chinese accusations were 'baseless.' The spokesperson affirmed that Greene 'fully represents the position of the U.S. government.' This assertion underscores Washington's consistent policy towards Taiwan, guided by the Taiwan Relations Act, the three U.S.-China joint communiqués, and the Six Assurances.

The U.S. reiterated its commitment to supporting Taiwan's acquisition of defense capabilities commensurate with the threats it faces. Simultaneously, the department urged Beijing to cease its pressure campaign against Taiwan and instead engage in meaningful dialogue with Taiwan's democratically elected leadership without preconditions. This stance aligns with long-standing U.S. policy across multiple administrations.

Greene's earlier comments at a drone forum in Taichung had emphasized the need for Taiwan to bolster its self-defense. The U.S. position, as articulated by the State Department, remains unchanged following recent high-level engagements, including President Trump's summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping. The U.S. seeks to maintain the balance in the Taiwan Strait by strengthening Taiwan's self-defense capabilities and welcomes Taiwan's President Lai's commitment to maintaining the status quo.