PR-2137
August 10, 2021
AIT Director Sandra Oudkirk’s Meeting with President Tsai Ing-wen
Earlier today, AIT Director Sandra Oudkirk met with President Tsai Ing-wen for the first time since assuming duties as Director of the American Institute in Taiwan. They discussed a wide range of issues, including the U.S.-Taiwan relationship, partnership on economic and trade issues, Taiwan’s success in managing COVID-19, and cross-Strait relations.
In her opening remarks, Director Oudkirk said, “It is truly a delight for me and an honor to be back in Taiwan, this time, serving as the Director of the American Institute in Taiwan. As you all know, the U.S.-Taiwan relationship is at a high-water mark, and I really do hope to be able to work directly with you, madam, and with all of our colleagues here to build and strengthen that relationship and to move forward in many different ways and in all the many different ways that you have mentioned.”
Director Oudkirk highlighted the growth of the U.S.-Taiwan economic partnership, including recent Trade and Investment Framework Agreement (TIFA) talks, as well as our shared priority of ensuring economic security. She also noted the steady and positive development of security cooperation and security assistance programs.
Director Oudkirk commended Taiwan on its handling of COVID-19 and noted U.S.-Taiwan cooperation, as well as continued support by the United States of international COVID-19 relief efforts. Director Oudkirk also stressed the common democratic values that the United States and Taiwan share and the United States’ enduring commitment to Taiwan.