Citing a 'routine' update, US removes reference to Taiwan independence on website
CNBC5 days ago
US Amends Wording on Taiwan Independence
Above: Taiwanese and American flags in Taipei, Taiwan, on Feb. 22, 2024. Image copyright: I-Hwa Cheng/Contributor/Bloomberg via Getty Images
The Facts
The US State Department has removed the phrase "we do not support Taiwan independence" from its Taiwan fact sheet, while maintaining its opposition to unilateral changes to the status quo from either side.
The updated fact sheet, published on Feb. 13, 2024, adds new language about resolving cross-Strait differences "free from coercion" and includes references to Taiwan's cooperation with Pentagon technology projects.
The State Department describes these modifications as routine updates, and reaffirmed its commitment to the One China Policy, which acknowledges Beijing's position that there is only one Chinese government.
The Spin
Anti-China narrative
The updated fact sheet reflects the strengthening of the US-Taiwan partnership and Washington's commitment to peaceful resolution of cross-Strait issues. Such changes demonstrate American support for Taiwan's meaningful participation in international organizations and acknowledge the island's crucial role in global technology supply chains.
Pro-China narrative
This modification is yet another example of the US' misguided policy of using Taiwan to suppress China. Such changes violate previous diplomatic commitments and threaten stability in the Taiwan Strait, as Taiwan remains an internal matter for China that warrants no external interference.
Metaculus Prediction
The Controversies
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