Trump's call with Taiwan 'much ado about nothing': US House Speaker Paul Ryan

SPH Brightcove Video
US House Speaker Paul Ryan says it was 'prudent' for President-elect Donald Trump to take a 'congratulatory' phone call from Taiwan's leader.

WASHINGTON, DC (REUTERS) - US House Speaker Paul Ryan says there's a lot of "much ado about nothing" surrounding President-elect Donald Trump's phone call with Taiwan's leader.

Speaking to reporters on Tuesday (Dec 6), Mr Ryan said it was "prudent" for Mr Trump to take a congratulatory call from Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen.

The Obama administration has warned the call could undermine progress in relations with Beijing.

White House spokesman Josh Earnest said senior National Security Council officials spoke twice with Chinese officials over the weekend to reassure them of Washington's commitment to the "One China" policy and to "reiterate and clarify the continued commitment of the United States to our longstanding China policy".

The policy has been in place for 40 years and is focused on promoting and preserving peace and stability in the strait separating China and Taiwan, which is in US interests, Mr Earnest said.

Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you.