US revises Taiwan policy, drops ‘independence’ reference on official website: How China reacted

The United States Department of State has recently updated its Taiwan policy, removing a key phrase that previously stated Washington does not support Taiwan’s independence.

This revision is reflected in the latest fact sheet on the State Department’s website, which outlines US-Taiwan relations.

Previously, the fact sheet stated, “We do not support Taiwan’s independence,” a phrase that has now been omitted.


The updated document also modifies references to Taiwan’s participation in international organisations by removing the condition “where statehood is not a requirement.” Instead, the new wording emphasises that Taiwan’s ongoing dispute with China should be resolved “free from coercion, in a manner acceptable to the people on both sides of the Strait.”

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Additions to the fact sheet

Another addition to the fact sheet includes a reference to the Pentagon’s collaboration with Taiwan’s National Science and Technology Council, suggesting deeper ties in technological and defence-related areas.

Despite these changes, the State Department has downplayed their significance, calling the updates "routine" and reaffirming the US commitment to the One China Policy — which acknowledges Beijing’s claim over Taiwan but maintains unofficial US-Taiwan relations.

China’s response and US-Taiwan relations

China condemned the change, saying the US has “gravely backpedalled” on its position on Taiwan and sent the wrong message to “separatist forces” on the island, according to AP.

China’s foreign ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun was quoted as saying by AP, “We urge the US to stop emboldening and supporting Taiwan independence and avoid further damaging China-U.S. relations and the peace and stability of the Taiwan Strait.”

While the US State Department insists the modifications do not indicate a major shift in policy, analysts believe the wording sends a clear message to China.

Yang Kuang-shun, co-founder of the US Taiwan Watch think tank, suggested that the revisions show Washington’s independent stance in managing its relations with both Taiwan and China, rather than allowing Beijing to dictate the terms.

Taiwan’s perspective

Taiwanese officials welcomed the updated US stance. Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung expressed gratitude for America’s "support and positive stance on US-Taiwan relations" and its commitment to peace in the Taiwan Strait, reported AP.

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Lin’s statement followed a pledge by Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te to increase investment in the US, a move aimed at strengthening economic ties amid potential new tariffs from the Trump administration.

FAQs:

1. Why did the US State Department change its Taiwan policy stance?
The State Department described the changes as routine, but experts believe they reflect a shift in Washington’s stance toward Taiwan by omitting direct opposition to Taiwanese independence.


2. How did China react to the policy update?
China condemned the change, saying the US has “gravely backpedalled” on its position on Taiwan and sent the wrong message to “separatist forces” on the island.