Written by Lisa Murimi
The US State Department has removed a statement from its website that previously affirmed Washington’s position of not supporting Taiwan’s independence, a move that has drawn sharp criticism from China.
Beijing condemned the revision, arguing it sends a “wrong signal to separatist forces advocating for Taiwan independence” and urged the US to “correct its mistakes.”
The fact sheet on Taiwan-US relations had previously included the phrase “we do not support Taiwan independence,” which was quietly removed last week as part of what the US described as a “routine update.”
Despite the revision, a US spokesperson reaffirmed Washington’s commitment to the “One China” policy, under which the US formally recognizes China rather than Taiwan.
The updated fact sheet also states that the US will support Taiwan’s membership in international organizations “where applicable.”
Taiwan’s Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung welcomed the change, calling it “positive, Taiwan-friendly wording.”
However, China’s foreign ministry responded forcefully, labeling the update a “serious regression” and another example of the US attempting to “use Taiwan to contain China.”
As tensions escalate, this diplomatic shift may have lasting implications for US-China relations and Taiwan’s international standing.
