A US congressional delegation visiting Taipei has pledged to continue providing defense assistance to Taiwan. The party made the pledge on Thursday (March 28), days after approving $300 million in military aid for the self-ruled island. US-based news agency AP reported this news.
Congress approved $400 million in aid as part of the US Defense Appropriations Act on Saturday, according to reports. This money has been allocated to counter the influence of the Chinese government.
China considers Taiwan a separatist province. The country feels that it must be brought under control by force if necessary. Therefore, Beijing sends warships and warplanes to Taiwan every day. Thus they increase the military pressure on the island.
The United States does not recognize Taiwan as a country like other countries. However, the US helps the island to defend itself. Not only that, the western country considers all threats to Taiwan as a matter of concern.
The US delegation is led by House Intelligence and Special Operations Subcommittee Chairman Representative Jack Bergman. The US delegation also includes Democratic Representative Donald Norcross of New Jersey and Jimmy Panetta of California. Lawmakers arrived in Taiwan on Wednesday and will remain until Friday.
During a meeting with Taiwan President Tsai In-wen, head of the delegation, Jack Bergman, said the strategic relationship is important to Taiwan’s future security.
The Republican representative from Michigan said the discussions include Taiwan maritime strategy and how we can work together to counter China’s increasingly aggressive actions.
Tsai In-wen thanked the Biden administration and Congress for helping Taiwan’s defense. He said this support will strengthen Taiwan-US relations.
A Defense Ministry spokesman in Beijing said China opposes US arms sales to Taiwan.
Senior Colonel Wu Qian said at the monthly briefing, “We demand that the United States adhere to the one-China policy, refrain from undermining China’s sovereignty and security interests, and not interfere in China’s internal affairs.”
Members of the US delegation met with Taiwan’s Vice President and newly elected President William Lai and newly elected Vice President Bi-Khim Hsiao. Taiwan’s new administration will take office on May 20.
Taiwan has expressed concern over China’s expansion of military bases near the island. However, they said that they do not want tension with Beijing.
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