Lin Defends Diplomatic Record, Says Trump-Lai Call Could Still Happen

Reporter/Provider - TaiwanPlus
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Taiwan's foreign minister, Lin Chia-lung, is defending his record during his time in office, saying the country has strengthened ties with partners around the world despite mounting pressure from Beijing. He also said Taipei is watching signals from Washington as to whether a mooted phone call between Donald Trump and President Lai Ching-te could take place.

REPORTER:  

Taiwan Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung is defending his diplomatic record during his time in office, saying Taiwan has strengthened ties with partners around the world despite mounting pressure from China.

 

REPORTER:  

At an annual briefing in Taipei, Lin is taking questions from reporters about the state of Taiwan’s diplomatic relations. When asked about speculation over a possible call between Taiwan President Lai Ching-te and US President Donald Trump he said Taiwan is closely watching signals from Washington.

 

Lin Chia-lung (FOREIGN MINISTER):  

Since President Trump pitched the idea  

I think they’ll figure out a way for it to happen.

Since we're the ones answering the phone

we just need to be ready.  

Trump has to take the initiative.

 

REPORTER:  

Taipei is working hard to preserve its strong unofficial ties with Washington, Taiwan’s main security partner and biggest arms supplier. Lin also rejected suggestions that Taiwan could become part of any broader US-China deal.

 

Lin Chia-lung (FOREIGN MINISTER):  

I think Xi Jinping got a false impression about

some kind of joint US-China management of Taiwan.

There’s no such thing.  

Because the problem is created by China

so Taiwan needs to work with the US, the world

and especially the countries along the first island chain

to manage [China] and prevent any unexpected action.

 

REPORTER:  

Lin also addressed questions about possible overseas travel by President Lai Ching-te. He says overseas visits would depend on invitations from partner nations and transit arrangements along the route.

 

Lin Chia-lung (FOREIGN MINISTER):  

If some friendly nation extends an invitation

or if there is a major celebration

we will certainly consider [attending]

if we receive an invitation.  

But it depends on the specific situation.  

For example, a transit stop is required  

to reach Latin America  

just like we transited through Guam and Hawaii last time.

 

REPORTER:  

His comments come after Taiwan says China pressured some African nations to revoke overflight permission for President Lai’s charter plane last month, forcing him to postpone a planned visit to African ally Eswatini.

 

REPORTER:  

Taiwan has 12 diplomatic allies left, after several countries switched recognition to Beijing in recent years. But Lin says Taiwan’s international support can no longer be measured only by formal alliances.

Diplomacy