US National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby says US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s visit to Taiwan is her “prerogative.” Pelosi arrived in Taiwan for a visit on Tuesday night. Pelosi is second in the presidential line of succession, making her the highest-ranking US official to visit Taiwan since 1997.
China sees Taiwan as part of its territory and has not ruled out taking the island by force. Pelosi’s visit is being seen as an affirmation of Taiwan’s sovereignty and a demonstration of support for the country.
In an interview with CNN, Kirby said there is no reason “to erupt into conflict” over Pelosi’s Taiwan visit. He points out that the US has sent many congressional delegations to Taiwan in the past and that Pelosi’s trip shouldn’t be treated any differently.
Kirby says Pelosi’s visit is consistent with the US' Taiwan Relation’s Act. That law regulates relations between the United States and Taiwan. He adds that the trip does not infringe upon the US’ so-called One China Policy.