Taiwan’s collaboration with the United States serves as a significant asset for its high-tech sector, particularly in semiconductors, highlighting the island’s status as a dependable partner, President Lai Ching-te stated during a presentation at a think tank in Hawaii.
As a leading manufacturer of chips utilized in various applications, from automobiles to artificial intelligence, Taiwan is home to TSMC, a crucial supplier for major companies like Apple and Nvidia.
However, President-elect Donald Trump has previously criticized Taiwan during his election campaign, alleging that it has been taking business away from American semiconductor firms. His proposed broad import tariffs could potentially impact an industry vital to Taiwan’s economy.
Speaking at Hawaii’s East-West Center on Sunday, Lai emphasized Taiwan’s active role in the global supply chain, particularly within high-tech sectors such as semiconductors, as outlined in a summary provided by Taiwan’s presidential office.
“The partnership between the U.S. and Taiwan not only bolsters these industries but also underscores Taiwan’s strategic significance as a trustworthy and reliable ally,” the statement attributed to Lai noted, reflecting his comments made in English during a private session.
“Taiwan is also committed to collaborating with like-minded nations, showcasing its expertise to foster global development.” The remarks did not reference Trump, who had previously suggested that Taiwan should bear costs for its protection.
Lai’s visit to Hawaii is part of a week-long tour to engage with allies in the Pacific region. China has expressed disapproval of this trip, opposing any transit by Taiwanese leaders on U.S. soil.
China asserts that Taiwan, which is governed democratically, is part of its territory—a claim that Lai and his administration firmly dispute. Over the past five years, China has increased its military presence around the island.
Security sources have informed Reuters that China may conduct additional military exercises near Taiwan during Lai’s trip to the Pacific.
During a recent event at a think tank, Lai emphasized Taiwan’s dedication to enhancing its defense capabilities and collaborating with like-minded nations to promote the principle that “strength brings peace,” while also defending the universal values of freedom, democracy, and the rule of law.
According to the president’s office, Lai stated that the partnership between Taiwan and the U.S. in recent years reflects Taiwan’s commitment to its own security and the shared dedication of both nations to maintaining peace in the Indo-Pacific region.
On Sunday, Lai engaged in a 20-minute conversation with former U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, where they addressed the military threats posed by China, as reported by Taiwan’s official Central News Agency.
In response to Pelosi’s visit to Taiwan in 2022, China conducted military exercises around the island.
The United States remains Taiwan’s most significant international ally and arms supplier, despite the lack of formal diplomatic relations.
Following his time in Hawaii, Lai plans to visit the Marshall Islands, Tuvalu, and Palau—three of the twelve countries that maintain official ties with Taipei. He will also have a stopover in Guam, a U.S. territory.
Both Hawaii and Guam host significant U.S. military installations.
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