Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has extended its gratitude to the United States, Japan, and Australia for their joint statement underscoring the importance of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. This statement was made following the 14th Trilateral Defence Ministers’ Meeting (TDMM) held in Darwin, Australia, where defence officials reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining security in the region.

The meeting brought together Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence Richard Marles, Japanese Minister of Defence Nakatani Gen, and US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin III. The three officials highlighted the enduring nature of their partnership, stating, “Through this fourteenth meeting, we affirm the longevity and enduring commitment of our partnership. Grounded in shared values, deep trust, and our unbreakable commitment to strengthening collective deterrence, our cooperation continues to evolve.”

Taiwan Presidential Office Spokesperson Karen Kuo shared the joint statement on X, expressing gratitude to international allies for their focus on the Taiwan Strait. “The trilateral joint statement once again demonstrates that peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait is not only a critical regional issue but also an essential element in global peace and prosperity,” Kuo said in an official press release.

The statement reaffirmed the importance of peacefully resolving cross-strait issues and voiced strong opposition to any unilateral attempts to alter the status quo through force or coercion. It also highlighted concerns over developments in the East and South China Seas.

Kuo further noted Taiwan’s pivotal role in defending democracy and contributing to regional stability. “Taiwan stands on the frontline of the defence of democracy and is a responsible member of the region and the international community,” she stated. Amid growing regional complexities, she emphasised Taiwan’s commitment to bolstering its self-defence capabilities and deepening partnerships with like-minded nations such as the US, Japan, and Australia to protect the rules-based international order.

The trilateral statement underscored the significance of the Taiwan Strait as a cornerstone of global peace and prosperity, a sentiment echoed by Taiwan’s leadership. As tensions in the region escalated Taiwan reaffirmed its dedication to upholding democratic values and fostering international cooperation.