Tensions in Asia
US delegation revisits Taiwan – Indiana governor reaffirms partnership
Indiana Governor Eric J. Holcomb meets President Tsai Ing-wen during his visit to Taiwan
©Handout/AFP
Another US pinprick in the direction of China: Despite the recent tensions over the visit of Nancy Pelosi, a US delegation has again visited the island republic of Taiwan.
Despite the tensions with China, a US delegation has again visited the island republic of Taiwan. Taiwan’s President Tsai Ing-wen received the group led by Indiana Governor Eric J. Holcomb on Monday.
At the meeting, Tsai called for further strengthening mutual relations. Taiwan is being threatened militarily by China. “At this moment, democratic allies must stand together and promote cooperation on all fronts,” Tsai said.
Holcomb arrived in Taipei on Sunday for the previously unannounced visit. The governor promised that Indiana would continue to work on developing a strategic partnership with Taiwan. He looks forward to future collaborations.
Just last week, five congressmen headed by Democratic Senator Ed Markey traveled to Taiwan. The visit came almost two weeks after the heated dispute with Beijing over the trip of US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi to Taiwan. The communist leadership sees the island as part of the People’s Republic, firmly rejects official contacts from other countries to Taipei and even threatens to conquer it. Taiwan, on the other hand, sees itself as independent.
After Pelosi’s visit, Beijing began large-scale maneuvers around Taiwan. Among other things, a sea and air blockade and a possible conquest were practiced. Eleven ballistic missiles were also launched, one of which flew directly over Taiwan not far from the capital for the first time. It was the largest military show of force in decades.