TAIPEI, Taiwan — In a significant display of solidarity, Taiwan’s president-elect, Lai Ching-te, met with the first group of U.S. lawmakers to visit Taipei since his election earlier this month. Lai, from Taiwan’s governing Democratic Progressive Party and the current vice president, emphasized the importance of continued support from the United States.
Taiwan as a Crucial Strategic Location
Speaking to the leaders of the U.S. House of Representatives Taiwan Caucus, Lai highlighted the shared values of democracy and freedom between Taiwan and the U.S. He stressed that Taiwan’s location in the first island chain makes it a crucial strategic point in countering China’s authoritarian expansionism. Lai underscored the significance of stability across the Taiwan Strait for regional and global peace and prosperity.
Firm Support and Deepened Cooperation
Expressing his hopes for continued U.S. support, Lai called for deepening bilateral cooperation and relations, urging the United States to work with other democratic partners to ensure peace and prosperity in the region. He also emphasized the importance of supporting Taiwan in bolstering its self-defense capabilities.
In response, U.S. Representative Mario Diaz-Balart assured Lai that U.S. support for Taiwan is unwavering and enjoys bipartisan consensus. He emphasized that Taiwan has the full support of the United States Congress.
Taiwan’s Unwavering Stance
Taiwan’s government firmly rejects China’s sovereignty claims, asserting that only the people of Taiwan have the right to decide their future. Despite the lack of formal diplomatic ties, the United States remains Taiwan’s most crucial international backer and arms seller.
China, however, has repeatedly criticized the United States for its support of Taiwan, considering it a constant irritant in Sino-U.S. relations. Recently, China condemned the U.S. Navy for sailing a warship through the sensitive Taiwan Strait, calling it “trouble and provocation.”
China’s Response and Taiwan Strait Drills
China’s Defense Ministry spokesperson, Col. Wu Qian, justified China’s response in driving away the U.S. warship, stating it was “justified, reasonable, professional, and restrained.” He added that China’s military will continue to conduct relevant military operations around the Taiwan Strait regularly as part of its training.
Analysts predict frequent drills in the run-up to Lai’s inauguration in May, as China closely monitors the situation.
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