Raymond F. Greene this week took over as director of the American Institute in Taiwan, the official U.S. government representative office on the democratic-ruled island that remains a major political target of China.
Mr. Greene, a career diplomat and deputy institute director from 2018 to 2021, vowed to strengthen bilateral relations in the face of mounting pressure from China.
In a meeting with Taiwan President Lai Ching-te on Wednesday, Mr. Greene said he plans to work with the Taiwanese government to bolster relations “at this important time.”
“First and foremost, the United States remains committed to supporting Taiwan’s ability to defend itself,” he said.
“We have a shared and abiding interest in peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. This is critical for the security and prosperity of the Indo-Pacific region and the world,” said Mr. Greene, until recently deputy chief of mission at the U.S. Embassy in Tokyo.
Taiwan is a critical trade and economic partner and Mr. Greene said he will work to bolster global supply chains.
The new director noted both Taiwan and the United States face growing complex challenges, and the long-standing partnership is “growing stronger by the day.”
“I am confident that with the support of the international community of democracies, we can preserve Taiwan’s democracy, promote prosperity in the United States and Taiwan, and take our relationship to new heights,” he said.
• Bill Gertz can be reached at bgertz@washingtontimes.com.
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