China strongly condemns the authorization granted by the United States to the Taiwanese president to visit American soil. Lai Ching-te, perceived as “a dangerous separatist” by Beijing, is on a stopover in Hawaii, where he meets American officials and strengthens ties with Washington before the start of Donald Trump’s mandate. This type of visit is not a first for a Taiwanese leader, but the welcome given to the head of state, like the context, does not fail to provoke a reaction, while China continues to increase pressure on Taiwan .
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Red carpet, flower leis, Hawaiian shirt and a welcome from Josh Green, the governor of Hawaii. The relaxed setting of the visit Lai Ching-te contrasts with the growing tensions that have agitated Taipei and Beijing since he came to power in January. This Saturday, November 30, he went to the memorial erected in honor of the victims of the attack on Pearl Harbor.
“ Our visit to the memorial today in particular reminds us of the importance of ensuring peace. Peace has no price, and war has no winner, we must fight, fight together to avoid war “, he said.
A peaceful message, but above all a desire to strengthen the relationship, particularly military, with Washington. This was emphasized by Laura Rosenberg, president of the American Institute at Taiwanthe American embassy de facto on the island: This opportunity to meet with thought leaders, the diaspora, and local and national leaders is invaluable and I know will help strengthen the rock-solid partnership between the United States and Taiwan. »
The Taiwanese president is due to visit the Marshall Islands, Tuvalu and Palau, the only nations in the region among the 12 remaining allies to recognize Taiwan.
The United States does not officially recognize the island, but remains its main arms supplier. This is evidenced by the proposed sale of American arms worth 385 million dollars (364 million euros) announced before the visit. A sale firmly condemned by Beijing. In a press release this Sunday, the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs promised strong and resolute countermeasures to defend its sovereignty: “ We urge the United States to immediately stop arming Taiwan and to stop encouraging and condoning forces that seek Taiwan independence and want to build up their military to achieve it. “.
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