US dedicates new diplomatic office in Taiwan

[Coventina]

Source: Associated Press

TAIPEI, Taiwan (AP) — The United States dedicated the grounds for a new representative office in Taiwan on Monday, making a visible commitment to the island at a time its rapidly improving ties with longtime foe China are diminishing U.S. influence.

Construction of the new $170 million American Institute in Taiwan — the de facto embassy since Washington switched recognition to Beijing 30 years ago — is meant to underscore continuing U.S. interest in what was once a key ally, but has since become something of a strategic afterthought. The highest profile Taiwanese official on hand was the National Security Council head, Su Chi, the main architect of Taiwan's ambitious China opening.

In his 13 months in office Taiwanese President Ma Ying-jeou has moved decisively to upgrade economic and political ties with China, lessening tensions across the Taiwan Strait and mending a split that dates to the Chinese civil war 60 years ago.

That has raised questions if the U.S. isn't being left behind in an area where it had a vital stake during the Cold War.



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