U.S., Japan reaffirm commitment to peace across Taiwan Strait

Washington, Feb. 7 (CNA) United States President Donald Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba reaffirmed the importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait in a joint statement issued after their summit in Washington on Friday.

Calling cross-Strait stability an "indispensable element of security and prosperity for the international community," the two leaders emphasized their commitment to a peaceful resolution of issues and opposed any unilateral attempts to alter the status quo by force or coercion.

The statement also expressed support for Taiwan's meaningful participation in international organizations.

Beyond Taiwan-related matters, Trump and Ishiba reiterated their strong opposition to the People's Republic of China's (PRC) "unlawful maritime claims, militarization of reclaimed features, and threatening and provocative activities in the South China Sea."

During his three-day visit to Washington, which began on Thursday, Ishiba also announced plans to boost Japanese investment in the U.S. to US$1 trillion and increase imports of U.S.-produced liquefied natural gas.

In response to the joint statement, Taiwan's government issued a press release expressing gratitude for the support from both nations.

"Taiwan will continue to strengthen its self-defense capabilities, deepen the trilateral security partnership with the U.S. and Japan, and work closely with like-minded countries," Presidential Office spokesperson Karen Kuo (郭雅慧) said.