Duval Times

In an effort to counter China's aggressive actions towards Taiwan, U.S. Senators Marco Rubio and Jeff Merkley have reintroduced the Taiwan Relations Reinforcement Act. This bill aims to update and strengthen U.S. policy in support of Taiwan's democracy and its engagement with the international community.

Senator Rubio emphasized the importance of this bipartisan bill, stating, "The Chinese Communist Party has isolated Taiwan through economic and political coercion. Beijing will stop at nothing with its predatory aggressions against Taiwan. This bipartisan bill is more important than ever as it reinforces our nation's commitment to our democratic ally, Taiwan, and strengthens our bilateral ties."

Senator Merkley highlighted the critical role that Taiwan's democracy plays in maintaining peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. He stated, "The United States' support for Taiwan's democracy plays a crucial role in defending that peace. The United States and Taiwan share fundamental values, and we must use diplomatic and economic tools to keep building a robust relationship with Taiwan to advance those values."

The Taiwan Relations Reinforcement Act includes several provisions aimed at bolstering U.S.-Taiwan relations and countering China's aggressive actions. These provisions include:

1. Creation of an interagency Taiwan policy task force to coordinate and streamline U.S. policy towards Taiwan.

2. Elevation of the U.S. Representative to Taiwan to a Senate-confirmed position, ensuring stronger diplomatic representation.

3. Establishment of a U.S.-Taiwan Cultural Exchange Foundation to promote cultural exchanges and understanding between the two countries.

4. Requirement of a report on the implementation of the Taiwan Travel Act, which aims to facilitate high-level visits between U.S. and Taiwanese officials.

5. Promotion of Taiwan's meaningful participation in international organizations, recognizing its contributions and expertise.

6. Mandate for strategies to protect U.S. businesses and non-government entities from Chinese government coercion.

7. Response to China's sharp power operations targeting Taiwan, ensuring a robust defense against such actions.

This bill builds upon previous efforts by Senator Rubio, who introduced the Taiwan Peace Through Strength Act in June 2023. The goal of these legislative actions is to reinforce U.S. support for Taiwan as it faces an increased threat of a Chinese Communist Party military attack.

The United States has a long-standing commitment to Taiwan and values its democracy and engagement with the international community. By strengthening U.S.-Taiwan relations and countering China's aggressive actions, the Taiwan Relations Reinforcement Act aims to support Taiwan's vibrant democracy and contribute to peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

For more information on the bill and previous efforts to strengthen U.S.-Taiwan relations, refer to the following resources:

- March 2021: Rubio, Merkley Reintroduce Bill to Strengthen U.S.-Taiwan Relations

- October 2020: Rubio, Merkley Introduce Legislation to Strengthen U.S.-Taiwan Relations

To learn more, click on this link: https://www.rubio.senate.gov/rubio-merkley-reintroduce-bill-to-strengthen-u-s-taiwan-relations-2/