TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's Presidential Office moved swiftly on Tuesday (May 13) to address concerns over recent U.S.-China trade discussions, with spokesperson Karen Kuo (郭雅慧) confirming Washington's stance that the negotiations excluded any Taiwan-related matters. The clarification came amid regional anxiety following comments by U.S. President Donald Trump that mentioned "unification."
The diplomatic flurry was triggered when President Trump announced a new tariff agreement with China and praised Beijing's market liberalization commitments. Trump characterized the deal as advantageous for both countries while also mentioning "unification and peace" — phrasing that immediately raised alarms in Taipei. The reference to "unification" prompted the U.S. State Department to quickly clarify that the president's remarks pertained exclusively to trade relations.
American diplomats issued an unambiguous statement distancing Trump's comments from Taiwan policy, emphasizing that his reference to "unification" addressed only the harmonization of U.S.-China commercial interests rather than any geopolitical implications for Taiwan's status. The clarification represented Washington's effort to prevent misinterpretation of presidential remarks that touched on sensitive cross-strait terminology.
Presidential spokesperson Kuo sought to reassure Taiwan's 23 million residents that the government remains focused on safeguarding national interests and economic stability amid the diplomatic developments. She emphasized Washington's decades-long consistency in its Taiwan policy framework, which has persistently highlighted the critical importance of maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, the 110-mile waterway separating the island from mainland China.
In a move to further clarify its position, the U.S. State Department reaffirmed its opposition to unilateral changes to the status quo across the Taiwan Strait, stressing this position reflects enduring American strategic interests in the region. Taiwanese officials indicated they will continue monitoring the situation closely while adapting to the shifting landscape of U.S.-China commercial relations that have significant implications for Taiwan's export-driven economy. ★
