Director of the American Institute in Taiwan, William Stanton, said yesterday during a conference on cross-strait relations that the U.S. government does not feel threatened or nervous about warming ties between Taiwan and China, stressing that "a peaceful and stable Taiwan Strait is a godsend" for all.

American Institute in Taiwan Director William Stanton was among the many guests in attendance at the Straits Exchange Foundation's 20th anniversary cross-strait relations conference.

Stanton said that the majority of his 30-year career has been spent in China and Taiwan, and that he considers himself an expert on cross-strait relations.

Stanton further said that the United States is optimistic about the development of cross-strait ties in light of the recent revolts in the Middle East and Africa.

According to Stanton, the U.S. is a good friend to Taiwan and supports Taiwan's participation in regional and international organizations and other endeavors beneficial to the development of Taiwan.

While the U.S. is willing to sell arms to Taiwan, it also hopes that Taiwan will lift its import restrictions on American beef.

During his address, Vice President Vincent Siew said that major achievements have been made in cross-strait relations, but that Taiwan has its sights set on the world rather than solely on China.

Siew further said that cross-strait issues will be a major focal point in the upcoming legislative and presidential elections, but elections are soon over with while national development is an eternal endeavor.

Therefore, the government will continue to promote cross-strait relations as allowed by the Republic of China's Constitution and in accordance with the wishes of the people.

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