US delegation visits Taiwan, pledges support for peace

TAIPEI (TVBS News) — President Lai Ching-te welcomed Michael McCaul, chairman of the U.S. House Foreign Affairs Committee, to the Presidential Office on Monday (May 27), pledging to continue deepening cooperation with the U.S. and like-minded countries to maintain regional peace, stability, and prosperity.

McCaul, appointed by Speaker Mike Johnson, arrived in Taiwan the previous evening, leading a bipartisan delegation to celebrate the inauguration of the new president and vice president.

President Lai thanked Speaker Johnson for his immediate public congratulations on his and Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim's election and McCaul's delegation visit to Taiwan.

Lai noted that this year marks the 45th anniversary of the Taiwan Relations Act, a cornerstone of U.S.-Taiwan relations. He acknowledged McCaul and Representative Young Kim for their efforts in holding Taiwan-themed hearings and assisting Taiwan.

The president also thanked Representative Andy Barr, co-chair of the Congressional Taiwan Caucus, and the other three co-chairs for proposing a resolution commemorating the 45th anniversary of the Taiwan Relations Act. Many delegation members signed in support of the resolution, demonstrating their deep affection and support for Taiwan.

He also praised Reagan's philosophy of "peace through strength," promising to promote defense reforms, enhance defense capabilities, and demonstrate Taiwan's determination to defend its homeland.

The president expressed hope that the U.S. Congress will continue to assist Taiwan in strengthening its self-defense capabilities and enhancing U.S.-Taiwan exchanges and cooperation through various legislative actions.

Lai believes that U.S.-Taiwan relations will continue to deepen, opening a new chapter and yielding more fruitful exchange results.