President Lai congratulates Trump on inauguration

Taipei, Jan. 21 (CNA) Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) extended his congratulations to Donald Trump via social media on Tuesday, following his inauguration as president of the United States.

In a post on X, Lai said Taiwan looks forward to working with Trump's administration.

"Sincere congratulations to @realDonaldTrump & @JDVance on your inauguration as #POTUS & #VP. #Taiwan looks forward to working with your administration to promote enduring freedom, peace & prosperity around the world. We wish you great success in the years ahead," Lai wrote.

A delegation of cross-party lawmakers led by Legislative Speaker Han Kuo-yu (韓國瑜) watched a livestream of the inauguration at Capital One Arena on Monday (Washington time).

Due to sub-zero temperatures forecast for Washington, the ceremony was moved indoors to the Capitol Rotunda, instead of being held on the Capitol steps. This adjustment significantly reduced the number of attendees, including Taiwan's delegation.