Taiwan's leader Lai Ching-te embarked on a Pacific tour, visiting allies like the Marshall Islands and Guam, while Beijing threatens to 'resolutely crush' any moves towards Taiwan independence.
TAIPEI, Taiwan — Taiwan leader Lai Ching-te departed Saturday for a stopover on US soil as part of a week-long tour of the Pacific, which has ignited fiery threats from Beijing. China considers self-governed Taiwan to be part of its territory and opposes any international recognition of the island and its claim to be a sovereign state.
Lai will visit the Marshall Islands, Tuvalu, and Palau, the only Pacific island nations among the 12 remaining allies that recognize Taiwan, after China poached others with promises of aid and investment. Lai underscored the importance of 'values-based democracy' during his trip. Taiwan deployed F-16 fighter jets to escort the China Airlines plane carrying Lai, government officials, and media outlets. The trip has elicited a furious response from China, which has vowed to 'resolutely crush' any attempts for Taiwan independence
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