Taiwan Ex-premier Will Lead a Delegation to Trump's Inauguration

Beijing (AP) -- A former premier will represent Taiwan at Donald Trump's inauguration Friday, a visit likely to be closely scrutinized by China for signs the incoming president intends to make good on remarks suggesting a shake-up in relations between Taipei, Washington and Beijing.

Yu Shyi-kun will be joined by lawmakers and local government officials representing both the ruling Democratic Progressive Party and the opposition Nationalists, the Foreign Ministry announced. It said the delegation, which intends to "express the importance our government and people place on close friendly bilateral relations," left Monday.