MAC Says Lai Would Clearly Express Taiwan's Views if Trump Call Happens

(CNA reporter Lee Ya-wen, Taipei, 21st) U.S. President Trump may have a phone call with President Lai Ching-te. The Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) stated today that communication channels between Taiwan and the U.S. are smooth, and if there is an opportunity for dialogue, President Lai will reflect the voice of Taiwanese society. The Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) held a regular press conference this afternoon, hosted by Deputy Minister and spokesperson Liang Wen-chieh. Liang Wen-chieh stated that the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) would stop at nothing to obstruct U.S. arms sales to Taiwan. Regarding the potential call between Trump and Lai, Liang said that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has already explained externally that Taiwan-U.S. communication channels are smooth, and if there is an opportunity for dialogue, President Lai will reflect the voice of Taiwanese society. Liang Wen-chieh stated that President Lai also responded at the press conference on the 2nd anniversary of his administration yesterday, saying he would express that Taiwan is not the so-called destroyer of regional peace, but the CCP's military intimidation actions are. "On this point, if we have the opportunity for a call, we will of course express it clearly." Trump, during a media interview at Joint Base Andrews on the 20th local time, when asked if he planned to talk with President Lai before making a decision on arms sales to Taiwan, replied, "I will talk to him, I talk to everyone," but did not specify a timeline. (Editor: Yang Sheng-ju) 1150521