Reiterates Support for Strong U.S.-Taiwan Relationship

Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Ed Royce (R-CA), Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee and an active member of the Friends of Taiwan Caucus, introduced H.Res. 494, a resolution that reaffirms U.S. commitment to the Taiwan Relations Act, passed by Congress 35 years ago.  Specifically, the resolution reaffirms support for Taiwan’s democratic institutions, peace in the Taiwan Strait, and deepening U.S.-Taiwan trade and security relations.

Introduction of the legislation follows the Chairman’s recent visit to Taiwan, where he worked to bolster the already strong U.S.-Taiwan relationship.  It marked Chairman Royce’s second visit to Taiwan in the past 13 months.

Chairman Royce said:  “Fair elections, personal liberty and free enterprise are the shared values that cement the strong U.S.-Taiwan relationship.  As we celebrate the 35th anniversary of the Taiwan Relations Act, I am pleased to introduce this important legislation.  I’ve recently returned from a successful and productive visit to Taiwan, and I am committed to continue strengthening ties with our close friend.”

Note: Last year, President Obama signed into law legislation authored by Chairman Royce which, for the first time since 1976, helps Taiwan participate in the United Nations International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).  Chairman Royce’s legislation is the first Taiwan-specific law in more than a decade.

###