TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Legislative Speaker Han Kuo-yu (韓國瑜) and a cross-party delegation met with over 400 expatriates on Sunday (Jan. 19) in Washington, D.C., highlighting the enduring relationship between Taiwan and its overseas community. The meeting was part of their visit to attend President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration on Monday, Jan. 20. The delegation arrived in New York on Saturday before heading to D.C.
During the event, Han, along with Kuomintang (KMT, 國民黨) legislators Lee Yen-hsiu (李彥秀) and Rujun Ge (葛如鈞), addressed approximately 410 attendees. Han emphasized the selfless affection overseas compatriots have for the Republic of China (中華民國), describing them as seeds thriving abroad and underscoring the deep connection with Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen, and Matsu.
Notably absent from the banquet were Democratic Progressive Party (DPP, 民進黨) legislators, which Han attributed to other engagements organized by the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in the U.S. The event featured Han and attendees singing "We Are Family" (我們都是一家人), "Plum Blossom" (梅花), and "Ode to the Republic of China" (中華民國頌).
Nearly 40 expatriates protested outside the venue, accusing Han of neglecting his duties. They demanded he maintain neutrality in presiding over meetings and guide the Legislative Yuan (立法院) back on course. Despite the protests, Han's message of unity and support resonated with many attendees, emphasizing the strengthening of bonds between Taiwan and its global diaspora.
