The new head of the American Institute in Taiwan (AIT), Greene, assured President William Lai Ching-te of robust military backing for Taiwan amidst escalating tensions between the United States and Beijing.
Greene emphasized the US commitment to bolstering Taiwan’s self-defense capabilities upon assuming office. He pointed to the approval of 15 arms sales under the Biden administration, including a significant $360 million deal for armed drones and missile equipment, as reported by Taipei Times.
Furthermore, the Biden administration has initiated unprecedented military aid to Taiwan since 2023, departing from past practices where Taiwan purchased weapons from the US without direct financial support.
Greene also highlighted increased diplomatic support for Taiwan, evidenced by a rise in congressional visits. These measures are aimed at deterrence but have contributed to heightened tensions, particularly with China increasing military activities around Taiwan in response.
Reflecting on his tenure as deputy chief of AIT in 2021, Greene noted a shift in US policy towards Taiwan during the Trump administration. He observed a transformation from viewing Taiwan solely through the lens of US-China relations to actively deepening bilateral ties.
“This shift reflects a fundamental change in how the US perceives Taiwan. It is no longer seen as a ‘problem’ but as an opportunity to advance our shared vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific,” Greene emphasized.
The term “free and open Indo-Pacific” underscores US aspirations for regional dominance and influence, positioning itself against increasing Chinese assertiveness in the region.
