Pompeo calls Taiwan 'great nation' at start of visit

Former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Wednesday began his visit to Taiwan by calling it a "great nation."

"It is wonderful to be here. I've been looking forward to coming to visit with the people of Taiwan for a very long time," he told reporters when he arrived at the airport, according to Reuters.

"I'm so much looking forward to my trip to meet with business people, people from government, people all across your great nation," he reportedly added.

The use of the word "nation" was notable given that the U.S. does not officially recognize Taiwan as a country under the "One China" policy. This is a nod to Beijing, which claims sovereignty over Taiwan.

But the use of the word has extra meaning on this visit given Russia's invasion of Ukraine, which has been tacitly backed by China. That has raised concerns further about a possible invasion by Beijing of Taiwan.

Pompeo is also thought to be a potential 2024 Republican presidential candidate.

Pompeo reportedly is set to meet with Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen on Thursday.