TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — American Institute in Taiwan Director Raymond F. Greene on Monday reiterated the US' resolve to deter a Taiwan Strait conflict.

Speaking at the eighth Yushan Forum, Greene said the Trump administration has stressed its “abiding interest” in maintaining peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. He said Washington opposes any unilateral changes to the status quo and that the US would continue to help Taiwan bolster its defense and resilience.

“Every country has a stake in preserving peace in the Taiwan Strait,” the AIT director said, pointing out that a conflict would cost over 10% of the global GDP.

Greene praised President Lai Ching-te’s (賴清德) policies on countering Chinese infiltration, saying they will further enhance Taiwan-US cooperation. He also welcomed Lai’s pledge to boost Taiwan’s defense budget to 3% of its GDP.

Greene said the US would also work with its regional partners to respond to threats and promote mutual interests. “The United States stands strong with its allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific.”

The US and its fellow G7 members emphasized the importance of Taiwan Strait peace and supported Taiwan’s inclusion in international organizations in a joint statement on Friday.  

Last week, US Senators John Curtis and Jeff Merkley introduced the Taiwan Representative Office Act, urging the Trump administration to rename the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office to the “Taiwan Representative Office.”