Features

AIT chief: US supports confidence building mechanisms

• Publication Date：03/26/2010
• Source： China Times

The U.S. supports establishing confidence building mechanisms between Taipei and Beijing, as such CBMs can help to reduce misunderstandings between the two sides, American Institute in Taiwan Director William A. Stanton said March 26.

Stanton made the remarks while attending the Global Views Leaders’ Forum, sponsored by the Commonwealth Publishing Group, in Taipei.

After delivering his speech “U.S.-Taiwan Relations: Bilateral Cooperation in Meeting Global Challenges,” Stanton was asked by Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs David Y.L. Lin whether the U.S. should play a more active role in promoting cross-strait CBMs.

Stanton replied that Lin’s question was not easy to answer because it involved the sensitive issue of sovereignty. Even if the U.S. wanted to help promote cross-strait CBMs, mainland China would never allow it, Stanton said.

But the U.S. has consistently been supportive of all attempts to improve cross-strait relations, he continued. If the CBMs are carefully designed and agreed upon by both sides, they can help reduce the risks of accidents and misunderstandings.

As to the direction the CBMs should take, as well as their method and timing, that was something for the people of the two sides of the Taiwan Strait to determine, Stanton noted. It would not be appropriate for the U.S. to indicate a stance on this matter, he said.

Since CBMs are such a sensitive topic, the only thing the U.S. can do is to express its support. The U.S. will also continue to provide Taiwan with sufficient means to defend itself in accordance with the Taiwan Relations Act.

The American government will do everything in its power to promote a peaceful resolution of the issue of Taiwan sovereignty, he concluded. (HZW)