A bipartisan U.S. congressional delegation recently visited Taiwan to pledge continued support for the island, following the approval of $300 million in military aid by Congress. This aid aims to help Taiwan defend itself from Chinese aggression, as China considers Taiwan a breakaway province. Beijing’s increasing military pressure on Taiwan, including sending warships and fighter jets near the island, has raised concerns globally. While the United States does not officially recognize Taiwan as a country, it is bound by laws to ensure the island’s security and considers any threats to Taiwan a matter of grave concern.
Led by Rep. Jack Bergman, the delegation reassured Taiwan’s leadership of ongoing support, emphasizing the strategic importance of the Taiwan-U.S. partnership for regional security. They discussed the need for a strong Taiwan maritime strategy and cooperation in countering China’s aggressive actions in the region. Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen expressed gratitude to the Biden administration and Congress for their support in enhancing Taiwan’s self-defense capabilities. China, on the other hand, strongly opposes U.S. arms sales to Taiwan, urging the U.S. to adhere to the one-China principle and refrain from interfering in its internal affairs.
In addition to Rep. Bergman, the U.S. delegation includes Democratic Reps. Donald Norcross and Jimmy Panetta, who also met with Taiwanese Vice President and President-elect William Lai and Vice President-elect Bi-khim Hsiao. Taiwan’s new administration is set to take office on May 20, and the visit by the U.S. lawmakers signifies ongoing support for Taiwan despite objections from Beijing. China restricts diplomatic exchanges with Taipei for countries it has relations with and has criticized U.S. officials’ visits to Taiwan in the past. Previous visits, such as House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s trip in 2022, led to increased tensions and military movements in the region.
While China and the U.S. have restored military-to-military contacts following diplomatic exchanges and a presidential meeting in San Francisco, Taiwan remains wary of China’s military expansion near its borders. The island nation aims to prevent further escalation of tensions with Beijing while ensuring its security and sovereignty. The visit by the U.S. congressional delegation highlights the ongoing support for Taiwan’s defense and the strategic partnership between Taiwan and the United States in the face of increasing Chinese aggression. Both countries are navigating a delicate balance between supporting Taiwan and managing relations with China to maintain peace and stability in the region.
