TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Sandra Oudkirk, the top U.S. official in Taiwan, reflected on the significant milestones in U.S.-Taiwan relations on Friday, June 14, as she approaches the end of her three-year term this summer.
Speaking at her final press conference, the director of the American Institute in Taiwan (AIT) emphasized her commitment to supporting Taiwan's self-defense, promoting resilience in global supply chains, expanding Taiwan's international presence, and deepening economic and cultural connections.
Oudkirk lauded Taiwan's crucial role in advanced manufacturing and defense-related high-tech sectors. "Taiwan is a leader in advanced manufacturing and high-tech electronics. As defense industries evolve to become more high-tech, I think there's obviously a role for Taiwan," she stated.
Oudkirk acknowledged the challenges Taiwanese companies face in joining the U.S. defense supply chain. She encouraged her successor, Raymond Greene, to continue bolstering the robust U.S.-Taiwan relationship. "My advice to my successor, who is very familiar with Taiwan, is to embrace this impactful and significant role. It is one of the most exciting and important jobs in the U.S. diplomatic service," she advised.
Highlighting the stable bipartisan support for Taiwan as the U.S. presidential election nears, Oudkirk underscored its strategic importance irrespective of political changes. The new government under Lai Ching-te (賴清德), which has been in office for a month, navigates the complexities of balancing relations with China and the U.S.
