In response to Lai’s -motherland theory-, Assistant Secretary of State for Asia and the Pacific- Ask Taiwan. The US-China policy has not changed.

In a recent media briefing, U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs, Daniel Kritenbrink, responded to President Lai Ching-te’s remarks regarding the concept of “motherland.” Kritenbrink urged that any questions about Lai’s comments should be directed to Taipei. He reaffirmed that the United States’ “One China” policy remains intact, emphasizing America’s opposition to any unilateral changes in the status quo by either side of the Taiwan Strait, as well as its position against Taiwanese independence. He stated that the U.S. is fundamentally interested in preserving peace and stability in the region.

These comments came during a briefing ahead of Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s forthcoming trip to Laos for ASEAN meetings. Kritenbrink highlighted the importance of consulting authorities in Taipei to fully understand the nuances behind President Lai’s statements. While reiterating the U.S. commitment to the Taiwan Relations Act and the three U.S.-China Joint Communiques, he stressed the crucial role of peace in resolving differences between the two sides.

“We oppose any unilateral changes to the current state of affairs by either side,” Kritenbrink remarked. “Our fundamental interest is to maintain peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait, and that will continue to be a key focus for us moving forward.”

On October 5, during the National Day celebrations, President Lai pointed out that as the People’s Republic of China celebrated its 75th anniversary, the Republic of China is nearing its 113th birthday. He firmly stated that considering their respective backgrounds, the PRC cannot be deemed the motherland for people of the ROC. Additionally, he noted that the ROC has established a strong presence in Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen, and Matsu over the past 75 years, suggesting that there is no longer a need to discuss this relationship. Lai insisted that any congratulations regarding the PRC’s anniversary should be accurate and avoid using the term “motherland.”