On January 22, 2025, a delegation from Taiwan celebrating the visit to the United States, consisting of members from various political parties of the Republic of China, met with members of the U.S. Congress. During the meeting, lawmaker Chen Guan-ting stated that the U.S. Congress has shown a high level of concern for Taiwan’s security, particularly in areas such as expediting arms deliveries and avoiding double taxation. These issues have received positive responses and support from bipartisan American lawmakers. Chen emphasized that despite changes in political leadership, the strong bilateral relationship between Taiwan and the U.S. will continue.
Throughout the visit, nearly 18 U.S. congressmen specially attended a lunch with the Taiwanese delegation, and in the afternoon, the delegation separately met with several key members of the U.S. House and Senate, including senators from the Armed Services Committee, the Foreign Affairs Committee, as well as important members from the House Appropriations Committee’s military subcommittee and the Foreign Affairs Committee’s cross-strait subcommittee.
Chen Guan-ting disclosed that during the discussions with American counterparts, the concept of “Peace Through Strength” was repeatedly highlighted. He stressed that American lawmakers fully comprehend the military threats China poses to Taiwan and appreciated Taiwan’s efforts to enhance its defense capabilities. They also expressed concerns about Taiwan’s self-defense capabilities and defense budget allocations.
Regarding the Taiwan-U.S. “Avoidance of Double Taxation Agreement,” Chen mentioned that progress has been fruitful in the U.S. House, and they hope for support from the Senate. American officials present at the meeting also recognized the contributions of Taiwanese expatriates. Members of the delegation conveyed heartfelt sympathies to the Californians affected by wildfires and expressed hopes for the swift containment of the fires and the restoration of their homes.
The value of Taiwan’s “Silicon Shield” was highly praised by American counterparts. In discussions, key American figures emphasized Taiwan’s critical role in the global technology supply chain. They pointed out that without Taiwan, many significant projects would be challenging to realize, underscoring Taiwan’s importance in maintaining regional peace and stability and highlighting its strategic position within the global democratic camp.
Chen Guan-ting mentioned Senator Sullivan from Alaska, who had previously served as a Marine Corps officer deployed to the Taiwan Strait during the third Taiwan Strait Crisis. Senator Sullivan demonstrated unwavering support for Taiwan. Chen was moved by the senator’s efforts, as he prepared a booklet titled “Why Taiwan Matters” during his tenure in the George W. Bush administration as Assistant Secretary of State for Economic, Energy, and Business Affairs, detailing Taiwan’s strategic value for other lawmakers.
Several important American figures reiterated the stance that “the future of the Taiwanese people should be decided by the people of Taiwan themselves.” Drawing on the experiences of Israel and Ukraine, they provided critical references for Taiwan’s defense applications. Through in-depth exchanges during this visit, Chen emphasized the solid consensus and cooperation between Taiwan and the U.S. in upholding regional peace and democratic values. Regardless of changes in political leadership, the bilateral relationship remains steadfast.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of China stated that President Trump and Vice President Vance were inaugurated on the 20th, becoming the 47th President and the 50th Vice President of the United States. The ROC government expressed sincere congratulations to President Trump and Vice President Vance.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of China expressed its hope for maintaining a solid and friendly foundation in Taiwan-U.S. relations, upholding principles of mutual trust, reciprocity, and mutual benefit, and collaborating with the new Trump administration to strengthen the close partnership in security, economy, technology, education, and other fields. This joint effort aims to benefit the people of both countries and promote peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region and globally.