Official statements or policy releases from ASEAN countries

Taiwan's New President Lai Ching-te Faces Chinese Military Drills, US Reaffirms Support with McCaul Visit

May 27, 2024, 12:07 AM

Following the inauguration of Taiwan's new President Lai Ching-te on May 20, China has conducted extensive military drills around Taiwan, including mock videos of missile attacks on Taiwanese cities. Despite the heightened military activity, President Lai has extended goodwill and cooperation toward China. The United States has reaffirmed its support for Taiwan, with President Biden and the State Department voicing concerns over China's actions during a routine democratic transition. A bipartisan U.S. congressional delegation, led by House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Michael McCaul, visited Taiwan to discuss regional security, trade, and investment, signaling strong U.S. support for Taiwan's defense and stability in the Taiwan Strait. Military analyst Sean Bell noted that China's actions appear to be testing Taiwan's defensive capabilities.