The leader of Taiwan‘s delegation attending Donald Trump‘s inauguration as U.S. president next week stated on Saturday that he aims to convey the island’s “highest blessings” to the United States. Taiwan, which China considers part of its territory, received significant backing from the previous Trump administration, including the regularization of arms sales that have persisted under President Joe Biden. However, Trump’s campaign remarks about Taiwan needing to pay for its defense caused some concern in Taipei.

Han Kuo-yu, the speaker of Taiwan’s parliament and a prominent member of the opposition Kuomintang party who ran for president in 2020, expressed at Taoyuan airport before departing for Washington that many foreign leaders were also en route despite the forecast of heavy snowfall. “All members of our delegation are bringing this enthusiasm to the United States to represent our 23 million citizens, and we extend our highest blessings to the U.S. presidential team and the American people,” he stated.

Han is joined by a bipartisan group of seven other lawmakers. The Chinese delegation is headed by Vice President Han Zheng, and President Xi Jinping spoke with Trump on Friday, addressing various issues, including Taiwan. Han’s party typically advocates for strong relations and dialogue with China, while denying any pro-Beijing stance. The United States, like most nations, does not maintain formal diplomatic relations with Taiwan but is legally obligated to provide the island with defensive support.

In recent years, China has intensified its military pressure on Taiwan and has refused to engage with President Lai Ching-te, labeling him a “separatist.” Lai, who disputes China’s claims of sovereignty, has faced rejection of his overtures for dialogue. During a meeting late on Friday with Mike Pence, Trump’s vice president during his first term, Lai emphasized that in light of China’s threats and its growing ties with nations like Russia, democracies must collaborate closely.