The director of the American Institute in Taiwan (AIT), Raymond Greene, has a deep connection with Taiwan. In a recent interview with the Central News Agency, he discussed his experiences serving in Taiwan for the third time and highlighted the shifting perceptions of Taiwan by both its own people and the rest of the world. According to Greene, Taiwan is eagerly anticipating the arrival of a new era known as the “golden age of technology”, while the world is beginning to understand the importance of Taiwan like never before.
Greene’s first assignment in Taiwan was from 2002 to 2005 as the Deputy Chief of the AIT Political Section, followed by a second term as Deputy Director from 2018 to 2021, and his current third term as Director beginning in July this year.
Reflecting on his first visit to Taiwan over 20 years ago, Greene noted the societal divisions that existed at that time. However, he observed that Taiwan’s discourse on important issues such as national security and international relations has become increasingly unified, a development that may not be readily apparent to those living within the country.
Despite only a three-year gap between his previous and current assignments in Taiwan, Greene noted significant changes in the opportunities and challenges facing the island. He expressed optimism about Taiwan’s potential for another golden age of technology, driven by advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) that are creating a positive outlook in the business sector.
Greene emphasized that Taiwan is becoming more aware of the risks and challenges it faces, with both the leadership and grassroots organizations actively promoting societal resilience. Initiatives like the establishment of the “Black Bear Academy” and the “Grand Taiwan Alliance” are seen as positive developments that contribute to peace, stability, and prosperity.
In terms of how the world perceives Taiwan, Greene noted that there is a newfound recognition of Taiwan’s importance globally. He highlighted Taiwan’s indispensable role in the global economy and the economic losses that could result from geopolitical risks. To deepen economic ties, the United States is enhancing its economic exchanges with Taiwan through initiatives like the US-Taiwan 21st Century Trade Facilitation Agreement and agreements to prevent double taxation, aiming to reduce trade barriers between the two nations.
When asked about protests surrounding the expansion of the AIT Taipei Office in Neihu, Greene highlighted that the expansion reflects the deepening and broadening of US-Taiwan relations. He mentioned the increased presence of law enforcement personnel from various US agencies at the AIT, underscoring the importance of maintaining close cooperation with the Taiwanese government, Taipei City, and local communities to ensure support for the expansion plan.
Addressing comments made by former President Donald Trump about Taiwan “hollowing out” the US semiconductor industry, Greene urged confidence in US-Taiwan relations, emphasizing bipartisan and cross-governmental support for Taiwan. Regardless of the outcome of the November elections, the continuity of US policy towards Taiwan is expected to persist, ensuring ongoing cooperation and support for the island.
Discussing cooperation in the semiconductor industry, Greene highlighted the close collaboration between the US and Taiwan, emphasizing Taiwan’s irreplaceable role in the chip manufacturing ecosystem. He suggested that expanding Taiwanese tech companies to other countries could benefit market health, viewing it as a mutually beneficial situation rather than a zero-sum game.
As the United States prepares for the presidential election in November, Greene urged American citizens in Taiwan to exercise their rights and vote. He pointed out that the number of voters determining the final outcome is even fewer than the population of American expats in Taiwan. He encouraged US citizens in Taiwan to make use of the absentee voting option through the fvap.gov website and either mail in their ballots or vote in person at the AIT before the deadline on October 14th.
(The article was adapted from the Central News Agency)