TAIPEI: Former ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley emphasized the “moral clarity” of supporting Taiwan in its ongoing tensions with China during a meeting with President Lai Ching-te on August 22.
Haley stressed the urgent need for moral clarity in global affairs. In her address at the Presidential Office, Haley contrasted Taiwan’s values with China’s approach of “control and suppression,” a difference particularly evident during the Covid-19 pandemic. Taiwan’s Central News Agency reported Haley’s critique of China’s handling of the outbreak, accusing it of concealing the virus’s origins and contributing to global suffering due to its “arrogance.”
She praised Taiwan for its efforts to warn the World Health Organization (WHO) about the virus despite facing international isolation due to Chinese pressure. Haley reiterated that her visit is meant to show American support for Taiwan and to encourage a strong partnership across military, business, and academic domains. Haley stressed the importance of addressing potential threats proactively, especially considering global conflicts such as the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the Israel-Hamas War.
“We can’t wait to see if China invades Taiwan; we need to get in front of the situation now,” Haley said. President Lai welcomed Haley on her first visit to Taiwan and thanked her for her support during her UN tenure.
