U.S. lawmakers seek closer ties with Taiwan's opposition parties

As hung parliament looms, delegation to visit island in show of support for democracy

The U.S. Congress plans to continue its bipartisan support of Taiwan by sending a delegation to meet with the island's lawmakers and president-elect. (Photo by Ryo Nakamura)

RYO NAKAMURA, Nikkei staff writer

January 21, 2024 05:00 JST

WASHINGTON -- A U.S. bipartisan congressional delegation will travel to Taiwan to strengthen relationships with opposition party leaders, as well as the president-elect, a prominent House member said, as Washington pledges to deter China from unifying the island unilaterally.

Rep. Ami Bera, top Democrat in the House subcommittee on the Indo-Pacific, will join a group of lawmakers on a trip to Taipei soon. It is expected to be the first congressional delegation since Lai Ching-te, a candidate of ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), won the presidential election on Jan. 13.