The United States’ newly appointed top diplomat to Taiwan has assured that Washington will assist the self-governed island in its defense amid increasing military threats from China against Taipei.

On Wednesday, the new US envoy to Taiwan pledged that Washington would assist the self-governed island in its defense amid increasing military threats from China.

Raymond Greene’s message carried significant weight as he assumed his new role as director of the American Institute in Taiwan on Monday, especially in light of the robust display of force by China’s People’s Liberation Army towards Taiwan on the same day.

“First of all, and the most important thing, the U.S. will strongly support Taiwan’s self-defense capabilities,” Greene said as he met with Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te. “We both have common and long-term interests in peace and stability over the Taiwan Strait.”

Lai emphasized Taiwan’s commitment to maintaining the current situation with Beijing, which asserts sovereignty over the island of 23 million people and insists it can reclaim it by force if necessary. While the United States, like most countries, does not officially recognize Taiwan as a separate nation, it remains its primary partner and is legally obligated under U.S. law to support its self-defense capabilities. Just weeks ago, the U.S. State Department approved a $360 million sale of missiles and drones to Taiwan. In April, the House of Representatives passed an $8 billion military aid package for Taiwan.

The American Institute in Taiwan serves as an unofficial embassy, while Taipei operates an Economic and Cultural Representative Office in the U.S. and similar unofficial embassies elsewhere. Since Lai assumed office in May, China has intensified military pressure on the island, viewing him as a separatist and refusing dialogue. In late June, Beijing issued threats against “hardcore” supporters of Taiwan independence, prompting Taipei to caution against travel to China, Hong Kong, and Macao.