Lai, from Taiwan’s ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) and the current vice-president, will take office on May 20. China, which claims Taiwan as its own territory, believes he is a dangerous separatist and has rejected his offers of talks.

Meeting with the leaders of the US House of Representatives Taiwan Caucus, Republican representative Mario Diaz-Balart and Democratic representative Ami Bera, Lai said democracy and freedom were core shared values with the US.

“Taiwan is situated in the first island chain and stands on the frontline of China’s authoritarian expansionism. This makes Taiwan a crucial strategic location. Stability across the Taiwan Strait is extremely important to regional and global peace and prosperity,” Lai said.

Lai added he would continue to defend the cross-Taiwan Strait status quo of peace and stability.

“I hope the US can continue to firmly support Taiwan, deepen bilateral cooperation and relations and work with other democratic partners to ensure peace and prosperity in the region,” he said.

“I also hope that the two co-chairs and our friends in the US Congress can continue to support Taiwan in bolstering its self-defence capabilities.”

Diaz-Balart told Lai his main message was that US support for Taiwan was firm, real and “100% bipartisan”.

“Rest assured that you have the support of the US Congress,” he said.

Taiwan’s government rejects China’s sovereignty claims, saying only Taiwan’s people can decide their future.

The US is Taiwan’s most important international backer and arms seller despite the lack of formal diplomatic ties.

China has repeatedly warned the US to stop its support for Taiwan and the issue is a constant irritant in Sino-US relations.

Last week, Lai and President Tsai Ing-wen hosted two former senior US officials visiting as part of an unofficial delegation sent by US president Joe Biden.