McCarthy and Taiwan President Meet in California Despite China's Warnings

U.S. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy expressed optimism during his meeting with Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen in California on Wednesday, stating a desire to find ways for the people of America and Taiwan to work together to enhance economic freedom, democracy, peace, and stability. He described Tsai as a "great friend to America." In return, Tsai thanked McCarthy and the other members of the congressional delegation for their hospitality, expressing her happiness and stating that she received a warm welcome akin to the warmth of California's sunshine. The Taiwanese Ministry of Defense announced that it had detected a Chinese aircraft carrier in waters off the island's southeastern coast prior to the meeting between Tsai and McCarthy. McCarthy became the highest-ranking American official to meet with a Taiwanese president on U.S. soil since 1979, despite threats of retaliatory actions from China.