US unveils site for new mission in Taiwan

0 Comments | AFP, June, 2009

TAIPEI (AFP) — The United States on Monday announced the site dedication of its new de facto embassy, in what officials said will be a milestone in Taipei-Washington ties.

The office compound, located on the outskirts of the capital city, will include quarters for security personnel, said the American Institute in Taiwan (AIT).

The institute has represented US interests in Taiwan since Washington switched its official diplomatic recognition from Taipei to Beijing in 1979.

The design has prompted speculation that for the first time in more than 30 years, the United States would send marines to the island to guard the facilities. The AIT declined to comment on the speculation.

"If that turns out to be true, it would mark a further improvement in bilateral...