The US representative in Taiwan has indicated that President Donald Trump's administration will support Taiwan's plan to bolster responses to China's espionage.



The Director of the American Institute in Taiwan, Raymond Greene, spoke at an international forum in Taipei on Monday along with Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te.



Lai said that Taiwan will strive, alongside with its partners in democracy, to respond to the threats and challenges posed by expanding authoritarianism.



Lai's speech followed his announcement last week that his administration will do more to tackle Chinese espionage, after dozens of active-duty and retired Taiwanese military members were charged with spying for Beijing.



Greene said, "President Lai's initiative to crack down on longstanding Chinese espionage and influence operations will further enhance our ability to cooperate with Taiwan."



He also said, "Our cooperation in the economic sphere will similarly make both Taiwan and America stronger, safer and more prosperous, while providing benefits to the entire international community."



Greene apparently referred to the world's largest contract chipmaker, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company, which has unveiled a plan to make a huge investment in the United States.



The director's remarks also made clear that the US will continue supporting Taiwan as China applies more pressure on the Lai administration by conducting military activities around Taiwan on a regular basis.