The United States says it opposes “outside interference or malign influence” in Taiwan’s elections, ahead of the island’s hotly contested presidential and legislative elections on January 13.
“We urge Beijing to cease its military, diplomatic, and economic pressure against Taiwan, which is fundamentally at odds with the goal of peace and stability,” a State Department spokesperson told VOA on Monday.
“We have deep confidence in Taiwan’s democratic process and believe it is for Taiwan voters to choose their next leader, free from outside interference,” the spokesperson added.
Washington’s strong words come as China ramps up an intimidation campaign ahead of the ballot, deploying military aircraft and naval vessels near the Taiwan Strait and flying several balloons across Taiwan and near its military bases.
Taiwan’s Defense Ministry accused China on Saturday of harassment and waging psychological warfare on the island’s people by repeatedly sending balloons over Taiwan close to the election date.
SEE ALSO:
Taiwan: Chinese Balloons are Harassment, Threat to Air Safety
