Another US congressional delegation in Taiwan: As tensions with China over its claims to the autonomous island remain high. A second legislative delegation from the US is now in Taiwan.
Since US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s visit in early August. Many Americans have been to Taiwan to meet with government representatives.
Since then, China has increased its military intimidation of Taiwan by routinely deploying warships, bombers, and even drones near the island.
On Thursday, the eight-person, nonpartisan group will speak with Tsai Ing-wen, the president of Taiwan.
It is headed by Stephanie Murphy, a Florida Democrat who is one of the legislators who presented a measure that would permit the US to lend arms to Taiwan in support. Similar to a bill enacted to lend weapons to Ukraine. Last week, the Biden administration authorized a $1 billion weapons to deal with Taiwan.
The other guests are Republican Scott Franklin of Florida, Democrat Kaiali’i Kahele of Hawaii, Republican Joe Wilson of South Carolina, Republican Andy Barr of Kentucky, Republican Darrell Issa of California, Republican Claudia Tenney of New York, and Republican Kat Cammack of Florida.
The US government’s highest-ranking official to visit Taiwan in 25 years was Pelosi. In retaliation, China conducted extensive military drills that included launching missiles over the island and deploying ships through the Taiwan Strait’s middle. Which had previously served as a demilitarized zone between the two sides.
In addition, the missiles made several landings in the exclusive economic area of Japan.
High-level international trips to the island see as meddling in Chinese affairs and a tacit acknowledgment of Taiwanese sovereignty by China.
Some believ that China’s recent military exercises a practice run for upcoming military action against the island. Which US army commanders fear might happen in the next few years.
A US senator, another congressional delegation, and government representatives from Japan and Palau visited Taiwan after Pelosi’s visit. Additionally, the governors of Arizona and Indiana paid trips with an emphasis on semiconductors, a sector that Taiwanese firms dominate.
Politicians from the US have described their travels as a gesture of solidarity with the island.
