US visits “reinforce” Taiwan’s “determination”, says president

President Tsai Ing-wen claimed the “firm demonstrations of support have reinforced Taipei’s determination to defend itself” as the head of Taiwan’s Mainland Affairs Council readies to visit the US to foster international support.

US Senator Marsha Blackburn became the latest US official to visit the island on Friday, after Nancy Pelosi’s controversial trip in August that escalated tensions in the region and bolstered confidence amongst Taiwanese officials.

Taiwan reported an incursion across the Median line – an unofficial border – by Chinese fighter jets on Friday as Beijing continues to demonstrate its strength in the region.