US congressional leaders show Taiwan bipartisan support

TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The U.S. Congressional Taiwan Caucus co-chairs Republican Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart and Democratic Representative Ami Bera, accompanied by five key aides, are visiting Taiwan from Jan. 24 to Jan. 26, 2024.

This marks the co-chairs' first visit to Taiwan in recent years, symbolizing their bipartisan commitment to Taiwan's democracy.

Their visit comes hot on the heels of Taiwan's presidential election, celebrating the victory of Taiwan's democracy and demonstrating its resilience at a pivotal moment.

While in Taiwan, Diaz-Balart and Bera will meet with President Tsai Ing-wen and Vice President and President-elect Lai Ching-te. They will also be hosted by Foreign Minister Joseph Wu.

Talks are scheduled with the Vice President-elect and Taiwan's Representative to the U.S., Hsiao Bi-khim, as well as other Taiwanese political leaders and national security and foreign affairs departments.

Both Diaz-Balart and Bera are long-standing friends of Taiwan, often leading or consistently proposing initiatives and bills supportive of Taiwan.

Diaz-Balart last visited Taiwan in October 2014 for its National Day celebrations, while Bera visited in April 2023, with Rep. Michael McCaul, chairman of the House Committee of Foreign Affairs.

The Congressional Taiwan Caucus is the largest and most participatory secondary body in U.S. Congress relating to foreign affairs.

Following the 2024 presidential election, co-chairs Diaz-Balart and Bera promptly issued a joint statement affirming Taiwan's democratic election results.

This year, marking the 45th legislative anniversary of the Taiwan Relations Act, their visit reemphasizes the U.S. Congress' consensus and unwavering support for Taiwan.

Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) plans to further deepen the full spectrum of Taiwan-U.S. relations based on shared values and the U.S. Congress's steadfast support.