TAOYUAN, Taiwan — A Taiwanese delegation led by parliament speaker Han Kuo-yu is set to attend the inauguration of Donald Trump as the 47th President of the United States on January 20, offering the island’s “highest blessings” to the US and its people. Speaking from Taoyuan airport before departing for Washington, Han emphasized the importance of Taiwan’s diplomatic presence at such a significant event, even in the face of harsh weather forecasts predicting heavy snow.
Han, a senior member of the opposition Kuomintang party and former presidential candidate, highlighted the enthusiasm of the delegation, which consists of eight lawmakers from multiple political parties. “We are representing Taiwan’s 23 million people,” Han said, “and we extend our highest blessings to the US presidential team and to the people of the United States.”
Taiwan has had a complicated relationship with the US in recent years, marked by strong support under the Trump administration, particularly in the areas of arms sales and military cooperation. This support has continued under President Joe Biden. However, Trump’s previous comments about Taiwan “having to pay” for its defense caused some unease in Taipei.
While Taiwan has no formal diplomatic ties with the US due to Washington’s “One China” policy, which recognizes Beijing over Taipei, the US is legally committed to providing Taiwan with the means to defend itself. The US-Taiwan relationship has also been strained by growing tensions in the region, especially as China intensifies military pressure on Taiwan, which it views as part of its territory.
As Taiwan strengthens its defense capabilities and solidifies its alliances, Speaker Han’s visit to Washington is also seen as an effort to maintain the delicate balance between fostering positive relations with the US while navigating its complex relationship with China. China’s delegation to the inauguration is being led by Vice President Han Zheng, with President Xi Jinping having spoken with Trump just days before, addressing issues including Taiwan.
The inauguration ceremony also coincides with rising geopolitical tensions. Taiwan’s Vice President Lai Ching-te met with Mike Pence, Trump’s former vice president, late on Friday, where they discussed regional security and the growing threat posed by China. In their meeting, Lai stressed the importance of democracies collaborating to counter Beijing’s influence and its increasing ties with countries like Russia.
“I believe that when the partnership between Taiwan and the United States becomes stronger, the power to maintain peace and stability in the world will also become stronger,” Lai remarked. This visit by Taiwan’s delegation underscores the island’s ongoing diplomatic efforts and its desire to maintain strong ties with the United States, even as it faces significant pressure from China.