OT-2101
January 15, 2021
Remarks by the U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Kelly Craft
at the Virtual Meeting with President Tsai Ing-wen
January 14, 2021
(as prepared for delivery)
Madam President, although I am in the final days in this position, my mission is not finished.
Nothing takes the place of the personal… however even virtually, the matters at stake are of upmost importance.
It is important for me to be clear on the U.S.-Taiwan relationship. The United States stands with Taiwan. The United States will always stand with Taiwan. The United States stands shoulder to shoulder with Taiwan as pillars of democracy.
Taiwan is an inspiration for the region and might I add for the world. Your courage and vision only reinforces Taiwan’s global reputation.
There are quite a number of nations represented in the UN who should look at Taiwan — not for opportunities to exclude it — but for reasons to aspire to be it.
In any context, by the standards of the free world , Taiwan is a model for democracy, equality for women, innovation and scientific exploration, a stanch defended of human rights.
Like you madam president and foreign Minister Wu, Taiwanese students are attending Universities around the world preparing to change the world for the better.
Madam President, you have taught me well to never mistake the present for a determination of the future.
I look forward to our discussion.
