Several federal legislators visit Taiwan.
The invasion of Ukraine by Russia, and the general acceptance of it by China, has prompted concern among many in Congress about the security of Taiwan.
Senator Bob Menendez of New Jersey and other legislators including Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina arrived in Taiwan on Thursday evening local time. Also in the delegation were Senators Richard Burr of North Carolina, Ben Sasse of Nebraska, Rob Portman of Ohio, and Representative Ronny Jackson of Texas.
Their visit was described by the Taiwan Ministry of Foreign Affairs as being reflective of the solid U.S. commitment to Taiwan as the situation in Ukraine remains dire. The Chinese government has protested the visit.
Last week, President Biden’s administration approved the sale of up to $95 million worth of training and equipment to support Taiwan’s Patriot missile defense system.
Other legislators not among the delegation include Speaker Nancy Pelosi who was set to go to Taiwan before she tested positive for COVID. Senator Tommy Tuberville of Alabama said conversations in Congress about protecting the Indo-Pacific have already begun, stating, “We’ve gotten together and talked about how much we want to increase the [defense] budget, because we know we’re going to have to spend it.”
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For the safety of the U.S. legislative delegation as they evaluate the threat to Taiwan.
- For wisdom for members of Congress as they consider actions to counter China’s aggressive stance in the Indo-Pacific.
- For the president and Secretary Blinken to seek God’s guidance in crafting foreign policies.
Sources: Axios, The Hill
