In the wake of Lai Ching-te's victory in Taiwan's presidential election, an unofficial delegation comprising former senior US officials is set to visit Taiwan on Sunday. The American Institute in Taiwan (AIT), acting as the de-facto US embassy, announced that the delegation would include former National Security Advisor Stephen Hadley and former Deputy Secretary of State James Steinberg.

The AIT clarified that the delegation, also including US-based Chair Laura Rosenberger, would be visiting in their private capacity. "On January 15, they will meet with a range of leading political figures and convey congratulations from the American people to Taiwan on its successful elections, support for Taiwan's continued prosperity and growth, and our longstanding interest in cross-Strait peace and stability," stated the AIT.

This move is expected to provoke tensions with Beijing, which views Taiwan as an integral part of China and has consistently expressed its commitment to reunification, even through force if necessary. Historical instances of similar visits have prompted China to conduct military drills, seen as a form of protest against perceived foreign interference.

The presence of high-profile figures like Hadley and Steinberg underscores the significance of US-Taiwan relations, especially in the context of the delicate cross-Strait dynamics. The delegation's visit is likely to be closely monitored for any responses from Beijing and could further complicate the already sensitive relations between the United States, Taiwan, and China.