Mike Pompeo, former US Secretary of State, has expressed confidence that the US will continue its robust stance on Taiwan under President-elect Donald Trump’s upcoming administration. Speaking at a forum in Taipei on January 6, Pompeo made it clear that, despite changes in Washington, US policy on cross-strait relations is unlikely to undergo a dramatic shift, as reported by Focus Taiwan (CNA). 

Pompeo, who served as Trump’s top diplomat from 2018 to 2021, suggested that the incoming administration would maintain a similar approach to Taiwan and China, reinforcing the framework of deterrence developed during his tenure. "The worldview from the White House will remain largely the same," he stated, adding that it was a model "designed to counter adversaries" who seek to undermine democratic values upheld by Taiwan and the US.

Pompeo’s remarks came amid questions about the president-elect’s Cabinet picks, including Marco Rubio for Secretary of State. Known for his staunch pro-Taiwan views, Rubio’s nomination signals a continuation of US support for Taiwan, according to Pompeo. “He shares my views on the importance of this relationship,” Pompeo said, reinforcing that the bilateral bond between Taiwan and the US would remain a priority.

The former diplomat also reaffirmed his belief that the US should abandon its long-standing policy of "strategic ambiguity" regarding Taiwan's defence. Since the end of formal diplomatic relations between the US and Taiwan in 1979, Washington has maintained ambiguity over whether it would intervene in the event of a Chinese attack on the island. Pompeo argued that this policy only increases regional instability, “misleads the international community,” and “emboldens aggression.”

A key aspect of his speech was Taiwan’s trade surplus with the US, which Pompeo acknowledged as a “not insignificant” factor in the bilateral relationship. He suggested that Taiwan should focus on leveraging its economic strengths and continue to put its interests first, as Trump had prioritised American interests during his presidency.

Pompeo’s visit, his second in less than a year, underscores the growing importance of Taiwan in US foreign policy. During his time as Secretary of State, Pompeo championed a series of initiatives aimed at deepening ties between the two nations, including arms sales and expanded diplomatic exchanges. His unwavering support for Taiwan is likely to remain a cornerstone of US policy in the coming years.