US lawmakers from both parties have pledged to strengthen Taiwan’s defense against China during a recent visit to the self-governing island. The visit comes just days after China conducted large-scale military exercises near Taiwan, following the inauguration of Taiwan’s new president, Lai Ching-te. Lai is known for advocating for Taiwan’s sovereignty and distinct identity, which has drawn the ire of Beijing. In a news conference, US Representative Michael McCaul, chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, condemned the military drills as an “intimidation tactic to punish democracy” and promised to expedite the delivery of defensive weapons to Taiwan. McCaul emphasized the importance of deterrence in countering China’s aggressive ambitions and expressed bipartisan support for Taiwan on Capitol Hill.
China’s Foreign Ministry criticized the visit and urged the US to stop interfering in its internal affairs. Taiwan’s Foreign Minister, Lin Chia-lung, hailed the visit as a display of strong bipartisan support for Taiwan and a gesture of solidarity.
The visit also included a meeting with President Lai, who expressed gratitude for the support and vowed to deepen cooperation with the US and other like-minded countries. McCaul commended Lai’s leadership and reassured him that the US would continue to be a reliable partner for Taiwan.
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