(Dan Tri) – The White House said that US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has the right to go to Taiwan, and urged China not to overreact if the trip really takes place.
US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (Photo: Reuters).
Despite China’s constant warnings, US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi plans to meet Taiwanese leader Tsai Ing-wen tomorrow, August 3, during her trip to Asia, the Financial Times news agency quoted knowledgeable sources as saying.
Reuters also quoted Taiwanese local newspaper Liberty Times as saying that after visiting Singapore and Malaysia, Ms. Pelosi’s delegation is expected to arrive in Taiwan at 10:20 p.m. today, stay overnight on the island and meet with Thai leaders.
Taiwan has not yet commented on the information that Ms. Pelosi may come to the island.
Last weekend, Ms. Pelosi announced her Asia tour schedule including Singapore, Malaysia, South Korea and Japan.
Ms. Pelosi’s trip to Asia is receiving significant attention amid concerns about escalating US-China tensions.
Chinese Ambassador to the United Nations Zhang Jun also declared on August 1: `We do not allow anyone to cross this red line.`
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said yesterday that the country’s military `will not sit idly by` if the Speaker of the US House of Representatives comes to Taiwan.
Some experts say that Beijing could establish a no-fly zone in the area around Taiwan or send military aircraft to block the plane carrying Ms. Pelosi if she intends to land on the island.
`China appears to be indicating it may launch stronger responses in the coming days around House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s trip. These responses could include military provocations,
Mr. Kirby also noted that President Joe Biden’s administration does not have the right to decide on Ms. Pelosi’s visit to Taiwan because Congress and the White House operate independently, and Ms. Pelosi’s trip does not reflect any changes.
Nick John