U.S. and Taiwan (2009)

U.S. Department of State

Philip J. Crowley
Assistant Secretary

Daily Press Briefing

Washington, DC
August 27, 2009

1:25 p.m. EDT

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QUESTION: On a different topic, China has been quite upset by the decision of Taiwan to let the Dalai Lama visit. Does the United States have a position on that and whether the Dalai Lama should be allowed to travel freely to Taiwan?

MR. CROWLEY: The Dalai Lama is an internationally respected religious leader who travels internationally on a regular basis, and I would refer you to Taiwan authorities as to any offer of travel they have made.

QUESTION: Can I follow up on that?

MR. CROWLEY: Sure.

QUESTION: Is the U.S. concerned that this could have a negative impact on cross-strait budding relations or improved ties?

MR. CROWLEY: This is, first and foremost, a matter between the Dalai Lama and Taiwanese authorities. We don't think there would be any cause for any particular tension in the region.

QUESTION: Well, wait -- you don't think it would be, but it is.

MR. CROWLEY: Well --

QUESTION: It already has caused tension, and he's not even there yet.

MR. CROWLEY: Put it this way, I think it -- I mean, these entities should make their own judgments on what they want to do. And we would certainly hope that actions should -- would not result in any increased tension in the region.

QUESTION: But you don't think that a visit by the Dalai Lama to Taiwan should provoke tensions -- should stoke tensions between China and Taiwan?

MR. CROWLEY: We believe that the Dalai Lama is a respected figure and he --

QUESTION: Well, he's not so respected in China.

MR. CROWLEY: -- and he travels regularly and we do not believe that this should result in increased tensions in the region.

QUESTION: Can you see if any U.S. officials have called any Taiwanese officials or Chinese officials on the issue?

MR. CROWLEY: I'm not aware that we have.

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(The briefing was concluded at 2:03 p.m.)