For some context, Wicker is one of the more vocal advocates for Taiwan in Congress and said that his visit is to reinforce the “great partnership” between the two camps. As he arrives in Taipei, he adds that “we are here to get a better understanding of the needs and concerns of our friends in Taiwan”. That as Taiwan president, Lai Ching-te, reaffirms that he hopes to increase security cooperation with the US.

All of this comes as China continues to step up military pressures on Taiwan, with Beijing set to hold a mass military parade to mark the 80th anniversary of the end of WWII. The event will feature Russian president Vladimir Putin as well as North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, so it will be quite the occasion.