US considers stepping up support for Taiwan

The United States intends to maintain its support for Taiwan and is prepared to expand assistance across multiple areas, according to a senior official nominated for a top position in the State Department.

Chris Pratt, nominated by President Donald Trump for the role of Assistant Secretary of State for Political-Military Affairs, made the remarks on May 15 during his confirmation hearing before the US Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Caliber.Az reports per foreign media.

A recording of the session was published on the committee's official website.

"If confirmed, I will undertake a comprehensive review of what more we can do to assist Taiwan and enhance our support," Pratt told senators.

Pratt described Taiwan as a vital US partner in the region and claimed the island faces increasing threats from China.

Earlier, on April 3, Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defence announced efforts to deepen cooperation with the United States.

The ministry noted that, in the face of "diverse threats and the rapid development of the People's Liberation Army," Taiwan would continue to work with allies and partners to bolster its defence capabilities and uphold peace and stability in the region.

By Aghakazim Guliyev