OT-2204
March 2, 2022
Remarks by former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Michael Glenn Mullen
March 2, 2022
Madame President, on behalf of the delegation, I want to thank you for your welcoming and kind words, and for your strong leadership, not only here in Taiwan but in this increasingly critical region of the world, where continued peace and stability has never been more important. It is an honor to be here.
I lead this delegation of private citizens to voice our support for the continued and growing strength of the vital partnership between the United States and Taiwan. We come to Taiwan at a very difficult and critical moment in world history. As President Biden has said, democracy is facing sustained and alarming challenges, most recently in Ukraine. Now more than ever, democracy needs champions.
Today, Madame President, this delegation is proud to be visiting one of the world’s most vibrant democracies. Taiwan is tackling the leading challenges of our time – whether it be a global pandemic or corrosive disinformation and malign influence – without sacrificing core democratic values.
You are a global leader in promoting human rights, women’s empowerment, and an inclusive society. Taiwan came to the American people’s aid during the earliest days of the COVID-19 pandemic. You were the single largest donor of masks to the United States, for which we remain deeply grateful.
This delegation reflects the bipartisan nature of support for the United States’ strong partnership with Taiwan. Maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait is not just a U.S. interest, but also a global one.
That is why the United States will continue to oppose any unilateral changes to the status quo and will continue to support a peaceful resolution of cross-Strait issues, consistent with the wishes and best interests of the people of Taiwan. I do hope by being here with you, we can reassure you and your people, as well as our allies and partners in the region that the United States stands firm behind its commitments.
April will mark the 43rd anniversary of the signing of the Taiwan Relations Act, which President Biden voted for early in his Senate tenure. Forty-three years later, cooperation between the U.S. and Taiwan is stronger, deeper, and more expansive than ever before. We are grateful to Taiwan and President Tsai for your partnership and we look forward to our discussions today.
Thank you Madame President.
