*Administration of Barack Obama, 2012 *

**Statement on Elections in Taiwan **

*January 14, 2012 *

We congratulate Ma Ying-jeou on his reelection and the people of Taiwan on the successful conduct of their Presidential and legislative elections.

Through the hard work of its people and its remarkable economic and political development over the past decades, Taiwan has proven to be one of the great success stories in Asia. In this year's elections, Taiwan has again demonstrated the strength and vitality of its democratic system. We are confident Taiwan will build on its many accomplishments, and we will continue to work together to advance our many common interests, including expanding trade and investment ties.

Cross-Strait peace, stability, and improved relations in an environment free from intimidation are of profound importance to the United States. We hope the impressive efforts that both sides have undertaken in recent years to build cross-Strait ties continue. Such ties and stability in cross-Strait relations have also benefited U.S.-Taiwan relations.

The relationship between the people of the United States and the people of Taiwan is based on common interests and a shared commitment to freedom and democracy. As we have done for more than 30 years, we will maintain our close unofficial ties with the people on Taiwan through the American Institute in Taiwan and according to our "one China" policy based on the three joint communiques with the People's Republic of China and the Taiwan Relations Act.

*Categories:* Statements by the President : Taiwan, elections.

*Names:* Ma Ying-jeou.

*Subjects:* China : Relations with Taiwan; Taiwan : Democracy efforts; Taiwan : Economic growth and development; Taiwan : President; Taiwan : Relations with China; Taiwan : Relations with U.S.; Taiwan : Trade with U.S.

*DCPD Number:* DCPD201200026.