TAIPEI, Taiwan (AP) – A visit to Taiwan by U.S. Senators Roger Wicker and Deb Fischer has sparked criticism from China, which continues to assert its claim over the island and opposes any official interactions between U.S. and Taiwanese officials. Wicker, who serves as the Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, and Fischer, both Republicans, arrived in Taipei on Friday for a series of high-level discussions with key leaders in Taiwan. The agenda for their meetings includes important topics such as U.S.-Taiwan relations, regional security, and trade and investment concerns, as outlined by the American Institute in Taiwan, which functions as the de facto embassy due to the lack of formal diplomatic ties between the U.S. and Taiwan.
Upon their arrival in Taipei, Senator Wicker emphasized the importance of supporting democracy, stating, “A thriving democracy is never fully assured… and we’re here to talk to our friends and allies in Taiwan about what we’re doing to enhance worldwide peace.” Senator Fischer echoed this sentiment, highlighting the significance of their discussions amidst current global unrest. She noted that the discussions would also focus on security and opportunities for progress in the region.
However, the visit was met with swift condemnation from China's Foreign Ministry. Spokesperson Guo Jiakun denounced the trip, claiming it “undermines China’s sovereignty and territorial integrity” and warned that it sends a “gravely wrong signal” to pro-independence forces within Taiwan. The Chinese government views any official exchanges between the U.S. and Taiwan as provocative, particularly given its stance on reunification with the island.
The visit by Senators Wicker and Fischer to Taiwan is part of a broader itinerary that also included stops in Hawaii, Guam, Tinian, Pala, and the Philippines. The inclusion of Taiwan in their travels underscores ongoing U.S. support for the island amid rising tensions with China.
The United States remains Taiwan’s largest supplier of military arms, providing advanced military equipment such as tanks, air defense missiles, and upgraded F-16 fighter jets. This military assistance is part of the U.S. commitment to ensuring Taiwan’s security in the face of China’s constant threats of invasion. China perceives these arms sales as a breach of commitments made by previous U.S. administrations, further straining relations between the two global powers.
The ongoing interactions between U.S. senators and Taiwanese officials illustrate the complexity of international relations in the Asia-Pacific region, particularly regarding the sensitive issue of Taiwan’s status and security dynamics. With both sides deeply entrenched in their respective positions, the situation remains delicate as the U.S. seeks to balance its support for Taiwan with its diplomatic commitments to China.
