Taiwan charts plan to get U.S. backing for Pacific trade bloc entry

Taipei, Aug. 14 (CNA) Taiwan plans to win the support of the United States to join a Pacific Rim trade bloc through long-stalled talks under the Trade and Investment Framework Agreement (TIFA), the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Tuesday.

"We have this strategic plan in mind," said Bruce Linghu, director-general of the ministry's Department of North American Affairs, at a press conference.

That means that Taiwan first needs to resume TIFA talks, which have been stalled since 2007, as soon as possible, he said.