A US congressional delegation affirms bipartisan support for Taiwan in first visit since election

By CHRISTOPHER BODEEN
Associated Press

TAIPEI, Taiwan (AP) — A bipartisan delegation from the United States Congress is reaffirming support for Taiwan following its election of a new president. The delegation’s visit is the first by U.S. lawmakers to the island since the independence-leaning Democratic Progressive Party won a third-straight term in the election. China opposes President-elect Lai Ching-te and claims the island as its own territory, to be annexed by force if necessary. U.S. Representative Mario Díaz Balart said support in the United States for Taiwan is firm and 100% bipartisan. Balart, a Florida Republican, was joined by California Democrat Ami Bera, who said the two sides must work together.