The Ministry of Foreign Affairs was unaware that the US had recently said the US-Japan security treaty includes the much-disputed Diaoyutai archipelago in the East China Sea, Department of North American Affairs Director-General Harry Tseng (曾厚仁) said yesterday during a weekly briefing.
The island chain has been a source of contention between Taiwan, Japan and China, which all claim sovereignty over the islands. Last month during his US visit, Japanese Prime Minister Taro Aso said that the Daioyutais, or Senkaku in Japanese, came under the protection of the Treaty of Mutual Cooperation and Security signed by the US and Japan in 1960.
The American Institute in Taiwan (AIT) last week told the Taipei Times that the US Department of State does not take a position on the ultimate sovereignty of the islands, but has clearly stated that the “treaty does apply” to the archipelago.
Tseng, however, said news of the US’ view that the treaty includes the island chain “was not reported back.”
Tseng said it was his understanding that the US continues to abide by its long-standing hands-off position.
He said the reason that MOFA was unaware of the state department’s position was there had been no public announcement and it only existed as a guidance note for dealing with direct questions from reporters.
“I didn’t ask the US for more information on this particular issue,” Tseng said. “For a more thorough explanation of the statement, I would suggest you go and speak to the AIT. The government’s stance is very clear: That we have rightful claim over the Diaoyutais.”
Tseng said one of the main priorities for his department this year was commemorating the 30th anniversary of the signing of the Taiwan Relations Act, a landmark piece of US legislation that serves as the backbone of Taiwan-US ties in the absence of formal diplomatic relations.
Tseng said a series of forums would be held in Washington this month and next month by several US think tanks and two forums would also be held in Taiwan.
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