Oxford meets Taiwan President during Pacific, Far East diplomatic tour

National Commander James W. Bill Oxford is heading to a Christmas reception at the White House after wrapping up a productive tour of the Department of Hawaii, Taiwan and Australia where he engaged with top military and diplomatic leaders.

While in Taiwan, Oxford met with President Tsai Ing-Wen, along with Republic of China ministers of Defense, Veterans Affairs, Foreign Affairs and its National Security Council.

“The best way to ensure peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific is to maintain strong Taiwan-U.S. relations, so that together, we can defend democracy and freedom,” Tsai told the commander’s delegation. “I would like to thank The American Legion for always supporting these shared beliefs. I would also like to thank the Legion for vigorously supporting the Republic of China (Taiwan) through concrete actions. That includes passing resolutions urging the U.S. government to sell defensive weapons to Taiwan, and inviting representatives chosen by our Veterans Affairs Council to participate in your annual meeting (convention) each year.”

Tsai, who made a videotaped address to delegates at The American Legion national convention last August, emphasized the importance of The American Legion’s relationship with Taiwan during her meeting with Oxford on Nov. 27.

“Under National Commander Oxford’s leadership, I hope that our Veterans Affairs Council will continue to closely cooperate with The American Legion,” she said. “Working together, we can strive for the wellbeing of veterans so that our comrades can all enjoy a sense of security and dignity in retirement.”

While in Hawaii, Oxford met with officials from the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency, the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, U.S. Pacific Air Forces, the VA Medical Center and The American Legion. The American Legion Department of Hawaii also includes two posts in Australia. While in Australia, Oxford met with Governor-General David Hurley and senior U.S. embassy officials.