2024-01-25 08:02:02
TAIPEI, Taiwan (AP) — A bipartisan U.S. congressional delegation reiterated its support for Taiwan during a visit Thursday, the first since the independence-leaning Democratic Progressive Party won its third consecutive term in the Nov. 13 election. January.
China, the United States’ main competitor for global influence, claims Taiwan as part of its territory and threatens to use force to bring the self-ruled island under its control. Beijing strongly condemned Lai Ching-te’s election and appears determined to continue with its policy of not engaging in dialogue with the island government, a practice that began when Tsai Ing-wen assumed the island presidency in 2016.
“America’s support for Taiwan is strong, it is real and it is 100% bipartisan,” said Florida Republican Rep. Mario Díaz Balart. “Know that we are proud of the people of Taiwan. We are proud of the relationship and how strong it has always been. That’s guaranteed. It will be even stronger.”
Balart was accompanied by California Democratic legislator Ami Bera, who stated that “In the 21st century, there is no place for aggressive actions. “We have to learn to live together, to trade together, to work together, to solve problems together.”
“So we look forward to working together to continue protecting the peace, prosperity (and) future of Taiwan,” he added.
For his part, the president-elect thanked the co-chairs of the Congressional Taiwan Caucus for their visit, stating that “the Taiwan of today is the Taiwan of the world.”
“Going forward, I will work with Vice President-elect Hsiao Bi-khim to continue building on the foundation laid by President Tsai to unite the people of Taiwan, strengthen social resistance, and continue to defend the status quo of peace and stability across the Strait. ”Lai noted.
Lai also spoke of the continuity of military assistance from Washington and a proposed tax agreement for their respective companies.
Beijing opposes any type of official contact between the United States and Taiwan. In 2022, he responded to the visit of the then Speaker of the House of Representatives, Nancy Pelosi, with some of her largest military maneuvers in years, which included the launch of missiles and a simulation of a blockade of the territory. In addition, he considers visits by foreign government officials as a recognition of the island’s sovereignty.
Washington cut its formal diplomatic relationship with Taiwan in 1979 to recognize China, but under US law it must guarantee that the island has the capacity for self-defense.
China frequently mobilizes warplanes and navy ships to intimidate and harass Taiwan, and in the 24 hours before 6:00 a.m. Thursday, 18 planes and six ships operated near the island. Three Chinese balloons were also recorded passing over the island, although it was not clear whether they had military or information-gathering purposes.
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