TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) highlighted the close Taiwan-US relationship during a meeting with US Representative Bruce Westerman on Wednesday.

Westerman is leading a delegation in Taiwan to engage with top officials on bilateral relations, regional security, and areas of mutual interest. 

Lai said the two sides have built strong foundations in energy, trade, and sustainable development, according to the Presidential Office. Taiwan will continue to expand its purchases from the US, such as natural gas and agricultural products, to help balance bilateral trade and strengthen its energy autonomy and resilience, he said.

The president also pledged to strengthen industrial cooperation with the US and help build a non-Chinese supply chain.

Lai thanked the US government for its arms sales to Taiwan and for supporting its defense capabilities. He reaffirmed Taiwan’s commitment to partnering with the US to safeguard regional peace and stability.

Westerman said he looked forward to continued dialogue between the Taiwan and US governments on enhancing trade and cooperation to promote mutual economic growth and prosperity. He underscored the delegation’s admiration for Washington’s longstanding friendship with Taipei and their eagerness to explore new ways of bilateral collaboration.

A second US delegation arrived in Taiwan on Wednesday, led by Senator Tammy Duckworth. The senator will hold discussions with Lai and other government officials on regional security and economic and trade policy.