Premier Lai Ching-te received American Institute in Taiwan (AIT) Chairman James Moriarty today, exchanging views on political and economic development and regional issues, and expressing hopes for continued and steady growth of Taiwan-U.S. relations.
Chairman Moriarty has visited Taiwan three times during the short period since assuming his post at the AIT Washington headquarters in October 2016. He has supported Taiwan through concrete actions, declaring publicly that the U.S. and Taiwan have built a durable, mutually beneficial partnership grounded in shared values. During President Tsai Ing-wen's trip abroad last year, Chairman Moriarty also accompanied the president throughout her transit stops in the U.S., for which the premier expressed gratitude.
Thanks to longstanding assistance from the U.S., Taiwan has made considerable progress in democracy, liberty, human rights and economic development. The people of Taiwan are extremely grateful to the U.S. and cherish the enduring friendship between Taiwan and the U.S., the premier said.
As for the National Defense Authorization Act recently signed into law by U.S. President Donald Trump, Premier Lai said Taiwan will live up to its responsibilities in related matters. Taiwan has also heeded the U.S. president's call for fair trade, as demonstrated by the many local firms investing in America and the government's vigorous efforts to promote Taiwan-U.S. economic and trade ties. On the topic of North Korea's nuclear ambitions, an issue of great concern for the U.S. president, Taiwan will take responsibility as a member of the international community and work with others to maintain regional peace and stability.