Taipei: TSMC's ongoing expansion in Arizona will serve as a model for technology collaboration between Taiwan and the United States, President Lai Ching-te said during a meeting with a delegation led by Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs in Taipei. Lai highlighted the significant progress in Taiwan's relationship with Arizona, primarily driven by Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co.'s (TSMC) substantial investments in the state.
According to Focus Taiwan, Lai referred to TSMC's commitment between 2020 and 2024 to invest $65 billion in three chip foundries in Arizona, with one already operational. The company has also pledged an additional $100 billion for the construction of three more foundries, a research and development center, and two packaging facilities in the state. Lai expressed confidence that continued cooperation would position Arizona as a leading model for bilateral collaboration in advanced technology and efforts to establish a supply chain free from Chinese involvement.
Governor Hobbs, during her remarks, emphasized the role of TSMC's projects in advancing global artificial intelligence and other technologies, while also strengthening bilateral ties. This statement was part of a press release provided by the Presidential Office following the meeting. Hobbs, who has been in office since 2023 and is visiting Taiwan for the second time in her official capacity, acknowledged the shared values and cultural and educational exchanges between Arizona and Taiwan over the years.
According to Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Hobbs' delegation is visiting Taiwan until Wednesday, having arrived on March 16. The delegation is scheduled to meet with representatives from Taiwan's Ministry of Economic Affairs, TSMC, and other enterprises.
On the same day, President Lai also met with Denzil Douglas, the foreign minister of Saint Kitts and Nevis, at the Presidential Office. Lai spoke of the longstanding collaboration between Taiwan and the Caribbean nation in areas such as education, agriculture, women's empowerment, and environmental protection. He stressed the importance of continued mutual support on the global stage and promoting beneficial exchanges for their people.
Douglas, who is visiting Taiwan from Monday to Friday, affirmed Saint Kitts and Nevis' commitment to advocating for Taiwan's international participation and promoting peace across the Taiwan Strait, as noted in a separate statement from the Presidential Office.