US House leader met with Taiwan President Tsai

President of the US House of Representatives Kevin McCarthy, who met with Taiwan leader Tsai Ing-wen in the US state of California, made statements with his deputies after the meeting. Stating that his country's cooperation with Taiwan is stronger than ever before, McCarthy said there are some ways to further strengthen ties.

'SHOULD CONTINUE ARMS SALES TO TAIWAN'

"Based on our conversations, it's clear that several actions are needed," said McCarthy, referring to the contacts with Tsai. "First, we must continue arms sales to Taiwan and ensure that such sales reach Taiwan in a timely manner. Secondly, we must strengthen our economic cooperation, especially in the field of trade and technology. Third, we must continue to promote our common values on the world stage.”

'THE TENSIONS IN THE WORLD ARE AT THE HIGHEST POINT'

Noting that they are living at a critical time in history and that urgent action is needed, McCarthy said, "Tensions around the world are at their highest point since the end of the Cold War, as authoritarian leaders seek to use violence and fear to provoke unnecessary conflict." Noting that his country and Taiwan are in favor of peace, McCarthy added that friendship between Taiwan and US is a very important issue for the free world and is critical to maintaining economic freedom, peace and regional stability.

'OUR INTENT IS NOT TO RISE THE TENSION'

Answering a question about whether relations with Taiwan have led to an escalation of tensions with Beijing, McCarthy reiterated that they are in favor of peace. In the face of questions about whether he will visit Taiwan or not, McCarthy said that such a plan is not on the agenda yet, but underlined that this does not mean that there will be no such plan. Stating that he could make a possible Taiwan visit with representatives from both parties, McCarthy said, "China cannot tell me where I can go or who I can talk to."

Taiwan's leader Tsai Ing-wen met with US House of Representatives Speaker Kevin McCarthy in the US state of California prior to his 10-day visit to Central America, which includes Belize and Guatemala, which maintain diplomatic relations with Taiwan. Tsai's visit drew the reaction of the Beijing administration, which claimed that Taiwan was a part of its territory.

(Ihlas News Agency)