Congress’ top China critics arrive in Taiwan for a visit that’s sure to draw scrutiny from Beijing

WASHINGTON (AP) — Some of Congress’ staunchest critics of China are visiting Taiwan in a show of support that is certain to draw scrutiny from Beijing, which views such interactions as a challenge to its claim of sovereignty over the island.

The delegation is led by Rep. Mike Gallagher, the Republican chairman of the House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party, and Raja Krishnamoorthi, the committee’s ranking Democrat. The committee was formed just last year and has held numerous hearings focused on human rights, trade, cyber intrusions and other issues central to the rising tensions between the two superpowers.

“Time and again Taiwan has shown the world how to stand up to the CCP’s bullying and not only survive, but thrive,” Gallagher said in a press release issued after the group’s arrival. He went on to say that promoting deeper ties between between the leaders and economies of the U.S. and Taiwan “can enhance peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait.”

The delegation is expected to be on Taiwan for three days and is part of a larger visit to the Indo-Pacific region. Other members include Rep. John Moolenaar, R-Mich., Dusty Johnson, R-S.D., and Seth Moulton, D-Mass. The delegation will meet with senior Taiwanese leaders and members of civil society to discuss U.S.-Taiwan relations, regional security, trade and other significant issues of mutual interest.

<bsp-list-loadmore data-module="" class=«PageListStandardB» data-gtm-region=«READ MORE» data-gtm-topic=«No Value» data-show-loadmore=«true» data-gtm-modulestyle=«List B»> <bsp-custom-headline custom-headline=«div»> READ MORE </bsp-custom-headline> <bsp-custom-headline custom-headline=«div»> US Congress members praise Taiwan’s democracy in a visit that’s