Dear Mr. President,
As we know, Taiwan is an ally who shares the same values with us. It is sad to hear that a 65-years-old unarmed Taiwanese fisherman was killed by Philippine coastguard on May 9th. 51 bullet holes were found.
Many Taiwanese people were convinced by Philippines that the Obama Administration will connive at this brutal shooting attack. The signal from Philippines is forcing Taiwanese move to the other end of the balance. The situation is severe and may harm the interests of the United States.
This is a tough situation, but the bottom-line is crystal clear; firing on unarmed fisherman's boat is not allowed.
The cost of losing Taiwan and its influence in Japan and China is extremely high. We, the People, demand our government to provide assistance to Taiwan.
Sincerely,
Response to Petition
Response to We the People Petition on Taiwan and the Philippines
Thank you for your petition regarding the May 2013 case of the shooting death of a Taiwan fishing boat captain in disputed waters.
The United States, through the American Institute in Taiwan and the American Embassy in Manila, as well as here in Washington, has consistently encouraged cooperative efforts between Manila and the authorities in Taiwan to resolve the matter. The United States continues to support the ongoing negotiations between Taiwan authorities and the Philippines on a fisheries agreement that will institute measures to make such confrontations less likely in the future.
We are pleased to see that tensions between Taiwan authorities and the Government of the Philippines have decreased markedly over the past year. We support their efforts to manage their disputes in a peaceful and cooperative manner.
The Philippines, a treaty ally of the United States, and Taiwan, an important security and economic partner of the United States, in a region vital to international commerce, have much to gain from the full restoration of their longstanding close friendship and cooperation.
Thank you again for your petition. We appreciate your input and the opportunity to convey our shared commitment.
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