Parliamentary speaker of Taiwan, Han Kuo-yu, is heading a cross-party delegation to Washington, D.C., for next week’s inauguration of Donald Trump as U.S. President. Before leaving Taoyuan Airport, Han stressed that the delegation’s mission was to extend the “highest blessings” on behalf of Taiwan’s 23 million citizens.
Despite the heavy snow warnings in Washington, Han stated that the delegation was eager to represent the goodwill of Taiwan. “All of our delegation members are taking this enthusiasm to the United States, extending our highest blessings to the U.S. presidential team and its people,” Han said.
Seven lawmakers representing various political factions joined Han, a senior member of Taiwan’s opposition Kuomintang (KMT) party, to present a unified approach in reaching out to the U.S.
China’s Presence and Rising Regional Tensions
China, which considers Taiwan part of its territory, has increased military pressure on the island over the last five years. It refuses to engage with Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te, whom it calls a “separatist.” Lai, however, rejects China’s sovereignty claims and has offered dialogue, which Beijing has rebuffed.
The Chinese delegation to the inauguration of President Trump is headed by Vice President Han Zheng. On Friday, Chinese President Xi Jinping spoke with Trump, talking about Taiwan and other key issues.
While the U.S., like almost every country, does not formally recognize Taiwan, it maintains close ties and is legally bound to provide the island with defensive capabilities. Arms sales to Taiwan became regularized during Trump’s first administration and have continued under President Joe Biden.
Calls for Stronger U.S.-Taiwan Relations
The President during a late Friday meeting with his predecessor as the Vice President by former president, Mike Pence reaffirmed the Democratic alliance with great significance due to growing threats coming from China along with increased strategic partnership between such states like China and Russia.
“Given China’s threats against Taiwan and its alignment with other authoritarian regimes, democracies must work together,” Lai said. “When the partnership between Taiwan and the United States strengthens, the global power to maintain peace and stability also grows.”
A Focus on Diplomacy Amid Challenges
Han’s Kuomintang party, traditionally favoring dialogue with China, denies being pro-Beijing. The delegation’s presence at the inauguration symbolizes Taiwan’s effort to fortify ties with the U.S. despite regional pressures.
As the inauguration approaches, Taiwan’s proactive participation highlights its commitment to maintaining and strengthening its partnership with the United States, a critical ally in the region.
