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U.S supports closer cross-strait ties: U.S official

ROC Central News Agency

09/02/13 14:53:22

By Luis Yu and C.Y. Lin

Washington, Feb. 12 (CNA) The newly appointed U.S deputy secretary of state said Thursday that the U.S. welcomes closer cross-Taiwan Strait ties and will continue through Washington's "one China" policy to support both sides' efforts to overcome their differences through peaceful means.

James. B. Steinberg made the remarks while attending the annual National Council for Visitors held in Washington, in which U.S. President Barack Obama's foreign policy was described.

Steinberg served as deputy national security adviser during the second term of former President Bill Clinton during the late 1990s, and during the 1996 Taiwan Missile Crisis, he met with Taiwan's National Security Council Secretary-General Ting Mao-shih, which later became the primary channel of communication between the two nation's national security agencies.

Asked what he thinks about the current cross-strait situation, Steinberg said the U.S. will keep a watchful eye on Taiwan-China relations, as they are one of the most important issues on Washington's foreign affairs agenda.

Both parties in the United States have a consensus about the U.S. cross-strait policy, and it has been one of the most successful in terms of U.S. foreign policy , Steinberg said.

Steinberg said the U.S. has maintained the same cross-strait policy for more than 30 years, as it has served the best interests of the parties involved and has helped maintain peace and stability in the area.

U.S. cross-strait policy under the "one-China" policy has greatly contributed to Taiwan's democracy and cross-strait economic development, and it is very important for the U.S to maintain its one-China policy in its cross-strait policy, said Steinberg, describing it as beneficial for all parties and ensuring the peace and stability of the area.

The interaction between the people, the closer economic ties and the increasing cultural exchanges between Taiwan and China are remarkable achievements for the leaders of the two sides, said Steinberg.