A U.S. Congressional delegation kicked off a two-day visit to Taiwan Jan. 8, underscoring the robust nature of Taipei-Washington ties, according to the ROC Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
“The aim of the group’s visit is to understand the latest development in Taiwan’s foreign affairs, national defense and trade, as well as the regional situation,” the MOFA said.
Headed by Sen. James Inhofe, co-chair of Senate Taiwan Caucus, the group includes Sens. John Boozman and Steve Pearce, as well as Reps. Vern Buchanan and Erik Paulsen. It is scheduled to meet with ROC President Ma Ying-jeou, National Security Council Secretary-General Jason C. Yuan and Legislative Yuan President Wang Jin-pyng.
The Taiwan visit is part of the delegation’s tour of Asia and Africa to discuss foreign affairs, security and trade issues, the American Institute in Taiwan said Jan. 7 in a statement.
Inhofe has long been friendly toward Taiwan, the MOFA said, adding that he has demonstrated his support for U.S. arms sales to the island, as well as its inclusion in the U.S. Visa Waiver Program and bid for meaningful participation in the U.N.-affiliated International Civil Aviation Organization.
“We appreciate Inhofe’s firm support and look forward to his continued backing of Taiwan within Congress and ongoing efforts to further strengthen bilateral ties,” the MOFA said.
Grace Kuo
Taiwan Today