Two American lawmakers arrived in Taiwan on Wednesday in a show of support after the latest presidential election under constant pressure from Beijing, in which Lai Ching-te won on the autonomous island, writes AFP, citing Agerpres.

President-elect Ami Bera and Mario Diaz-Balart, co-chairs of Taiwan’s Congress, arrived in Taipei on Wednesday, according to a statement released by Bera’s office.

Ami Bera is a Democrat from California and Mario Diaz-Balart is a Republican from Florida.

“During the visit, the representatives will meet with high-ranking government officials and company heads,” the text continues.

“The purpose of this trip is to reaffirm the United States’ support for Taiwan following the successful democratic elections there, to express solidarity in their shared commitment to democratic values, and to explore opportunities to strengthen the strong economic and defense relationship between the United States. and Taiwan,” the report says.

It is the second visit by a US delegation this year after the tiny Pacific nation of Nauru said it was cutting diplomatic ties with Taiwan to improve relations with China.

The surprise announcement, which came just days after Taiwan’s presidential election, means only 12 countries, including the Holy See, currently officially recognize Taiwan, which Beijing considers one of its provinces, which can be reunified by force if necessary. .

Lai Chin-te of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), which China describes as “separatist”, won the island’s presidential election in early January. Before election day, Beijing warned that its victory would bring “war and decline” to Taiwan.

China has stepped up its military pressure in recent years, stationing warplanes and ships around the island on an almost daily basis.

On Monday, Taiwan’s defense ministry reported a record six Chinese balloons flew around Taiwan over the weekend, including one that flew directly over the island.

Nauru’s announcement cast a shadow over last week’s visit by an informal delegation sent by US President Joe Biden’s administration to welcome Lai Chin Tae.

Although the United States does not recognize Taiwan diplomatically, Washington remains its strongest ally and main arms supplier.