Fights Break Out As Tsai Ing-wen Visits New York

Police in New York have had to break up fights between supporters and opponents of Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-wen during her visit to the United States.

Taiwanese media broadcast footage of the clashes outside the Grand Hyatt, where Tsai is staying during her two-day US trip.

Opponents of Tsai – many waving Chinese flags – chanted slogans and fought with supporters, while one man was seen being detained and handcuffed by police.

Tsai is spending two days in New York ahead of a visit to diplomatic allies in the Caribbean.

Unlike the last three American presidents, who were wary of angering Beijing, Donald Trump has ramped up relations with Taiwan.

Last week the State Department approved US$2.2 billion arms sale to Taiwan, including battle tanks and anti-aircraft missiles, the first big-ticket military deal for the island in years.

Tsai transited through the US during a trip to the Pacific earlier this year, as well as last year's visit to Paraguay and Belize, both prompting official protests by Beijing.

"Taiwan will not succumb to intimidation," Tsai's office said in a statement released as the US visit kicked off, without specifically mentioning Beijing. "All difficulties will only strengthen our determination to go out to the international community."

On Thursday evening Tsai met with envoys from the 17 remaining countries that still recognise Taiwan.

She was to attend a business forum on Friday and meet students on Saturday morning before heading to the Caribbean.

Tsai will visit Haiti, St Vincent and the Grenadines, St Lucia, and St Kitts and Nevis, which all recognise Taiwan. (AFP)