Key facts
- U.S. House members welcomed Han Kuo-yu, president of Taiwan's Legislative Yuan, to Washington.
- Lawmakers from both Democratic and Republican parties expressed firm support for Taiwan.
- The visit occurs while the Trump administration reviews a $14 billion arms sales package to Taiwan.
- Taiwan is the U.S.'s fourth-largest trading partner, driven by tech hardware demand.
- Han Kuo-yu requested U.S. assistance for Taiwan's participation in global activities.
Members of the U.S. House of Representatives welcomed Han Kuo-yu, president of Taiwan’s Legislative Yuan, to Washington on Wednesday, affirming strong bipartisan support for the self-governed island. The visit comes as the Trump administration is reviewing a $14 billion arms sales package to Taiwan, which received preliminary congressional approval months ago.
More than 30 House representatives attended a reception to demonstrate support, including Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi and Rep. Michael McCaul. McCaul welcomed Han, stating, "The United States supports you, Mr. Speaker." Pelosi emphasized the bipartisan and bicameral nature of the support, linking it to peace and commerce.
Han, leading an eight-person delegation, had previously met with U.S. senators. The delegation also visited Phoenix, Arizona, highlighting Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co.'s role in advanced chip production. Han, a member of Taiwan's opposition KMT party, spoke about shared values of freedom and democracy with the U.S. and the importance of maintaining regional stability.
The island's status is a sensitive issue in U.S.-China relations, with Beijing claiming Taiwan as its territory. Washington is legally obligated to provide Taiwan with defensive capabilities. President Donald Trump has indicated the arms sales package could be a bargaining chip, a notion several lawmakers pushed back against. Rep. Lloyd Doggett stated, "Taiwan is not a bargaining chip. It is an island of freedom." Rep. Ted Lieu urged the administration to approve the arms sale.
Han also highlighted Taiwan's growing trade relationship with the U.S., noting it has surpassed Germany as the fourth-largest trading partner. He appealed for U.S. help in increasing Taiwan's international space, as only 12 governments officially recognize Taiwan's statehood due to China's claims. The delegation is scheduled to depart on Friday, with Han set to take the inaugural nonstop flight by EVA Air between Washington and Taiwan.