In response to Trump, Taiwan says it is ‘sovereign and independent’

Taiwan has issued a statement reaffirming its sovereignty and independence, but also stating its intention to maintain the cross-strait status quo, under which it will not officially declare independence from China. This statement comes in response to US President Trump's comments on Taiwan, where he expressed his reluctance to see Taiwan declare independence, citing a desire to avoid conflict with China. Taiwan's statement aims to reassure China that it will not pursue independence, while also asserting its sovereignty.