Mood shifts in Taiwan as Nancy Pelosi visit raises fears of war

Now, Taiwan, facing a much more prosperous and assertive neighbour that claims its sovereignty and that is its largest trading partner, is balancing a wish to maintain the safety of the status quo and avoid conflict while still building international relationships.

There is also worry among Chinese people. Some told the Guardian they did not know who Pelosi was but they saw senior officials railing against her actions, and the military publishing propaganda videos about slaughtering enemies, and they feared a war was on the horizon.

With local elections in Taiwan due this year, and presidential elections next year, there is fear that the situation will only get worse, especially if Xi Jinping secures a third term as Chinese leader in the coming months.