US congratulates Tsai on Taiwan vote win

The United States congratulated Taiwan's first female president, Tsai Ing-wen, on her election victory Saturday and praised her predecessor for his efforts to improve ties with mainland China.

Vote counting is continuing but Tsai, the candidate of the of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), was on course for a record majority and a landslide victory over the ruling Kuomintang.

Her win is a defeat for Kuomintang's Eric Chu -- who has conceded the race -- and a rebuke for outgoing president Ma Ying-jeou.

"We look forward to working with Dr. Tsai and Taiwan's leaders of all parties to advance our many common interests and further strengthen the unofficial relationship between the United States and the people on Taiwan," State Department spokesman John Kirby said.

The US relationship with Taiwan, while close, is "unofficial" because Washington recognises China as one nation and supported outgoing leader Ma's efforts to improve relations with Beijing.

"The United States thanks President Ma Ying-jeou for his efforts to develop a strong partnership with the United States and applauds him for concrete steps he has taken to improve cross-Strait ties in recent years," Kirby said.

"We hope that President Ma's administration and the incoming administration will work constructively to ensure a smooth transition and continue to promote peace and stability in the region."