WASHINGTON (TVBS News) — Taiwan's Legislative Speaker Han Kuo-yu (韓國瑜) expressed respect for the U.S. decision to change President-elect Donald Trump's (川普) inaugural address indoors on Sunday (Jan. 19) local time, conveying Taiwan's warm congratulations to the new administration.
A change in venue for Trump's inauguration due to dangerously cold weather has left Taiwan's congratulatory delegation without a seat at the Capitol Rotunda ceremony. Taiwan's delegation remains hopeful for a meaningful engagement with the U.S. inauguration, reflecting the strong ties and mutual respect between the two nations.
Han and his delegation arrived in Washington, D.C., amid a snowstorm on Sunday afternoon. During an evening banquet with overseas Taiwanese, Han explained the adjustments due to the severe weather, stating, "We are guests. We totally respect (the U.S. adjustments)." The Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office (TECRO, 駐美代表處) continues to coordinate efforts for participation.
Han plans to deliver Taiwan's best wishes to the U.S. president and his team. The delegation intends to leave their hotel at 6 a.m. but has not disclosed their viewing location for the inauguration. With limited seating at the venue, Taiwan's delegation will seek alternative ways to participate. TECRO briefed the group on possible options and would make ongoing efforts to find a solution.