In Honolulu, supporters waving Taiwanese flags greeted Lai at his hotel. Although no high-ranking U.S. officials were present, Lai visited the Bishop Museum, where he exchanged cultural gifts. Museum CEO Dee Jay Mailer presented him with a traditional red lei hulu, while Lai gifted Paiwan and Atayal Indigenous headdresses and decorative items from Taiwan.

Lai emphasized Taiwan's commitment to democracy and global partnerships before departing from Taoyuan International Airport. “I aim to showcase Taiwan as a model of democracy and a key player in promoting global peace and stability,” he said.

While in the U.S., Lai is not expected to meet members of the incoming administration, led by President-elect Donald Trump. Trump previously suggested Taiwan should bear more financial responsibility for its defense, despite recent U.S. arms sales to Taiwan, including $385 million in F-16 spare parts approved on Friday.

China swiftly condemned Lai’s transit and the arms deal, accusing the U.S. of violating its sovereignty. Beijing warned of "resolute measures" to safeguard its territorial claims over Taiwan, which it considers a breakaway province. The U.S., bound by the Taiwan Relations Act, provides military support to Taiwan while maintaining strategic ambiguity about defending it against Chinese aggression.

As Taiwan remains a flashpoint in U.S.-China relations, Lai’s visit underscores both Taiwan’s strengthening ties with the U.S. and the rising geopolitical tensions over the island’s future

In Honolulu, supporters waving Taiwanese flags greeted Lai at his hotel. Although no high-ranking U.S. officials were present, Lai visited the Bishop Museum, where he exchanged cultural gifts. Museum CEO Dee Jay Mailer presented him with a traditional red lei hulu, while Lai gifted Paiwan and Atayal Indigenous headdresses and decorative items from Taiwan.

Lai emphasized Taiwan's commitment to democracy and global partnerships before departing from Taoyuan International Airport. “I aim to showcase Taiwan as a model of democracy and a key player in promoting global peace and stability,” he said.

While in the U.S., Lai is not expected to meet members of the incoming administration, led by President-elect Donald Trump. Trump previously suggested Taiwan should bear more financial responsibility for its defense, despite recent U.S. arms sales to Taiwan, including $385 million in F-16 spare parts approved on Friday.

China swiftly condemned Lai’s transit and the arms deal, accusing the U.S. of violating its sovereignty. Beijing warned of "resolute measures" to safeguard its territorial claims over Taiwan, which it considers a breakaway province. The U.S., bound by the Taiwan Relations Act, provides military support to Taiwan while maintaining strategic ambiguity about defending it against Chinese aggression.

As Taiwan remains a flashpoint in U.S.-China relations, Lai’s visit underscores both Taiwan’s strengthening ties with the U.S. and the rising geopolitical tensions over the island’s future