“We will always be a loyal friend to the United States.” Such was the message conveyed by Taiwan’s chief representative Dr. David Tawei Lee to the people of the U.S. during an on-air interview with WCBM Baltimore radio host Tom Marr Nov. 16.
“We will always be a loyal friend to the United States.” Such was the message conveyed by Taiwan’s chief representative Dr. David Tawei Lee to the people of the U.S. during an on-air interview with WCBM Baltimore radio host Tom Marr Nov. 16. During the interview, Rep. Lee discussed a variety of important topics, including Taiwan’s relationship with the United States, its role as a model for democratization in Asia, and its ongoing efforts to participate in international health organizations in the face of the avian flu threat.
Over the course of the telephone interview, which was conducted as Mr. Marr broadcasted from Taipei, Rep. Lee expressed appreciation for President George W. Bush’s public praise for Taiwan’s democracy earlier that day. “We certainly appreciate President Bush’s comments… progress, prosperity and democracy on Taiwan [were] achieved after years of effort.”
Asked about his thoughts on the present state of Taiwan-U.S. relations, the representative noted that the bilateral relationship between Washington and Taipei is a stable one. “I think we have a very efficient channel of communication and mutual confidence between our two leaders, and I think that is the main reason why President Bush gave us such praise in front of an international audience today.”
Rep. Lee also spoke about the long and mutually beneficial relationship shared between Taiwan and the United States, citing Taiwan’s continuing support of the U.S.-led war on terror and its donation of $2 million to relief efforts following Hurricane Katrina. “In spite of the fact that Taiwan does not have formal diplomatic relations [with the U.S.], Taiwan has always been a loyal partner and ally of the United States.”
On cross-strait issues, Rep. Lee said Taiwan acknowledged China’s rise as a regional power, but noted, “Only a pluralistic and democratic China can contribute to world peace instead of posing as a threat to regional stability.” Rep. Lee pointed out that Taiwan hopes its own vibrant democracy may one day act as a model for democratization in the People’s Republic of China.
Turning to the current threat of a global avian flu pandemic and Taiwan’s efforts to participate in international health bodies such as the World Health Organization, Rep. Lee said that because of Taiwan’s inability to meaningfully participate in international health bodies, there is a hole in the global health network. The representative stressed that Taiwan is ready and willing to contribute all of its resources and expertise to make sure any epidemic is contained. Rep. Lee pointed out the United States’ support for Taiwan’s efforts on this issue, saying that Taiwan appreciates the assistance and information the U.S. has shared thus far.
