President Tsai Ing-wen’s presidency is coming to an end in 2024. Tsai is making diplomatic visits to Central American countries before stepping down, but a recent report about her potential visit to the United States is sparking some concerns.
Video script:
British newspaper the Financial Times reports President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) will travel to the United States as part of her April itinerary throughout several Central America countries.
Foreign Minister Joseph Wu (吳釗燮) says Tsai's international visits are an important aspect of Taiwan’s foreign relations. Wu did not confirm the US visit, but says the government will reveal more details when there's a concrete plan.
The potential trip has raised concerns about building tensions between Taiwan and China. Last year, China responded to US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit to Taiwan with a series of military exercises around the island. Some reports suggest Tsai wants to visit the United States to prevent similar military drills in the future.
Premier Chen Chien-jen (陳建仁) says Taiwan's national security units have a good grasp of Taiwan-China relations and are prepared to respond with appropriate measures. With April just a few weeks away, many people are closely monitoring Tsai's upcoming travel plans and how the situation develops.