Diplomatic Row: China issues warning over Pelosi’s plan Taiwan visit as Washington reacts cautiously

US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s reported plan to visit Taiwan is drawing a cautious response from people in Washington. China is increasingly showing its displeasure over US actions regarding Taiwan.

China has issued a warning about the planned visit by the US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi to Taiwan.

Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijian spoke to reporters on Monday. He stated that China has repeatedly told the United States that it has serious concerns about the speaker’s trip to Taiwan. Zhao said that Beijing firmly opposes the visit.

He added, “If the US side insists on making the visit, the Chinese side will take firm and strong measures to safeguard our sovereignty and territorial integrity.”

The White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre on Monday said, “The administration routinely provides members of Congress with information and context for potential travel, including geopolitical and security considerations.” She declined to weigh in directly on Pelosi’s plans.

As speaker of the House, Pelosi is second in line to succeed Joe Biden, if the president dies or is unable to carry out his duties. Only the vice president ranks above her.

Biden said last Wednesday that “the military thinks it’s not a good idea right now” for Pelosi to make the visit.

The Washington Post reported that Biden administration officials have briefed Pelosi about the intelligence community’s assessment of the risks of going ahead with the trip.

Administration officials are apparently concerned that the trip may cause tensions in the Taiwan Strait to escalate.

Last Thursday, Pelosi refrained from confirming that she was planning the trip, citing security reasons. She faces a difficult decision, as not visiting Taiwan could prompt critics to say that she caved under pressure.

Pelosi was due to visit Taiwan and Japan in April, but the trip was postponed when she tested positive for the coronavirus.