To Taiwan, where officials are this week showcasing the nation's independence, democracy, military, and globally critical semiconductor factories.
The country of about 24 million people seeks international recognition, so it can participate in multilateral talks on trade, climate, and health.
But there's a major issue standing in the way: China, which says Taiwan is Chinese, and it would use force to ensure its reunification.
Next week the Chinese Communist Party's National Congress meets.
It will choose who'll lead the Party and the country for the next five years; the general secretary Xi Jinping, having crushed opposition, looks set for a third term.
RNZ weekend editor Kaye Albyt is in Taiwan and spoke to Māni Dunlop.
