A bipartisan group of six US lawmakers arrived in Taiwan on Sunday in a show of support for the island nation, following the recent inauguration of its new president, Lai Ching-te. This visit marks the first time current US officials have met with President Lai and comes amidst escalating tensions between Taiwan and China.

Led by Rep. Michael McCaul, chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, the delegation aims to demonstrate strong backing for Taiwan and act as a deterrent against Chinese threats. The group consists of Reps. Young Kim, Joe Wilson, Andy Barr, Jimmy Panetta, and Chrissy Houlahan, representing both the Republican and Democratic parties.

China, which claims sovereignty over Taiwan, perceives such visits as provocative and supportive of "Taiwan independence separatist forces." In an email obtained by NBC News, a Chinese Embassy official warned against the visit, criticizing Lai's inauguration speech as promoting independence.

President Lai, however, has expressed his commitment to maintaining the status quo, with no formal declaration of independence or reunification with China. He expressed gratitude for the support received from the US and other countries and expressed a desire for increased understanding and reconciliation with China.

During their stay in Taipei, the US lawmakers plan to meet with senior Taiwanese officials to gain insights into the priorities and objectives of the new administration. They will also engage with the leadership of the American Institute in Taiwan, discussing the US-Taiwan relationship, which, despite lacking formal diplomatic ties, relies on US support for defense and international backing.

The timing of this congressional visit coincides with China's recent military exercises near Taiwan. These exercises, described by Chinese Defense Ministry spokesperson Wu Qian as reasonable and necessary, were conducted as a response to what China perceived as separatist acts by Taiwan.

Cross-strait relations have worsened in recent years, with China intensifying military and political pressure on Taiwan. This has led to Taiwan's increased reliance on international support for its defense and recognition on the global stage.

The visit by the US delegation follows Congress's approval of around $2 billion in military aid to Taiwan, aimed at enhancing its defensive capabilities against Chinese aggression. Alexander Yui, Taiwan's new representative to the US, hailed the visit as a powerful demonstration of friendship and support for Taiwan.

As tensions continue to rise between Taiwan and China, the international community is closely watching the developments in the Taiwan Strait. The question remains whether these recent events signify a hardening stance from Beijing or merely a necessary response.

The presence of US lawmakers in Taiwan indicates the ongoing importance of the Taiwan-US relationship and highlights the global concern for the stability and security for this island nation.