美中台的安全關係

US-China-Taiwan Security Relations

Although the PRC is wary of President Chen's intention to improve cross-Strait relations, the US has praised Chen's inaugural address as ''constructive and responsible.'' With the One China principle still unsettled, China, Taiwan, and the US nevertheless all agree that it is imperative to establish a mechanism of mutual trust in the military field, and to jointly build a framework for peaceful, stable and growing cross-Strait relations. The ongoing Chinese missile deployment opposite Taiwan has embittered the majority of the Taiwanese and also the American people. The Bush administration pledges to continue to sell arms to Taiwan in accordance with the Taiwan Relations Act, in spite of Beijing's strong objections. By viewing any use of Chinese force against Taiwan as a matter of grave concern, the US on the other hand has warned Taiwan that a unilateral move toward independence will jeopardize Taiwan's democratic freedom, autonomy, prosperity and security. As long as the US maintains its strong commitment to play a constructive role in the Taiwan Strait. one can reasonably assume that the Taiwan issue can be solved peacefully, but it will take time and prudence to achieve this goal.