Hsiao, who has deep ties in the US capital and is expected to play a key role in strengthening US-Taiwan relations, appreciated the recent US legislation boosting Taiwan's defenses.

Taiwan is claimed by China, and the US is its most important supporter and arms supplier despite the lack of diplomatic ties.

The US has passed a bill to show continued support for Taiwan in the face of increasing geopolitical challenges from China.

Taiwan's new leaders, Hsiao and Lai, have taken office and plan to strengthen Taiwan's resilience and self-sufficiency.

China has been increasing military pressure against Taiwan, which rejects Beijing's sovereignty claims.

The new leaders aim to build a confident Taiwan that can galvanize international support.

This comes just before the US presidential election in November.

Former President Donald Trump, who is the presumptive Republican candidate for the upcoming election, has advocated for US allies, including NATO members, to increase their defense spending instead of relying solely on the US for protection.

Trump has also been critical of US support for Ukraine following its invasion by Russia.

During his previous administration, the US had a strong stance in favor of Taiwan.