FOG BLOG WORLD NEWS LOG: AMID TENSE U.S. - CHINA RELATIONS AND WARNING, PELOSI ARRIVES IN TAIWAN!

U.S. Speaker Nancy Pelosi arrives in Taiwan for official visit heavily criticized by China Highest-ranking American official to visit Taiwan in 25 years U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi arrived in Taiwan late Tuesday, becoming the highest-ranking American official in 25 years to visit the self-ruled island claimed by China, which quickly announced that it would conduct military manoeuvres in retaliation for her presence.

Pelosi arrived aboard a U.S. air force passenger jet and was greeted on the tarmac at Taipei's international airport by Taiwan's foreign minister and other Taiwanese and American officials. She posed for photos before her motorcade whisked her unseen into the parking garage of a hotel.

In a statement issued just after her arrival, Pelosi said the visit "honours America's unwavering commitment to supporting Taiwan's vibrant democracy."

Pelosi's visit has ratcheted up tension between China and the United States because China claims Taiwan as part of its territory, and it views visits by foreign government officials as recognition of the island's sovereignty.

Soon after Pelosi's arrival, China announced a series of military operations and drills, which followed promises of "resolute and strong measures" if Pelosi went through with her visit.