Nancy Pelosi Backs TAIPEI Act

The United States House of Representatives yesterday passed the Taiwan Allies International Protection and Enhancement Initiative (TAIPEI) Act, as written by Republican Congressman John Curtis of Utah.

A piece of bipartisan legislation, bringing together both Democrats and Republicans the act will increase awareness and recognition of Taiwan globally, at a time Beijing is increasingly encroaching upon Taiwan territory in the form of military forays into Taiwanese airspace, and shipping intrusions into Taiwanese waters.

Curtis, a member of the highly influential House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Asia, the Pacific and Nonproliferation, brought together 47 politicians from both political camps stating:“I’m proud to see today’s unanimous passage of my bill, the TAIPEI Act, which strengthens Taiwan’s position in the world by promoting free trade negotiations, supporting Taiwan’s participation in international organizations, and protecting its relations with its allies. This bill makes for a powerful statement and demonstrates that the United States stands with its democratic and free-market partners throughout the world.”

“The United States and democracies around the world should be concerned by China’s efforts to suppress Taiwan,” added co-lead on the bill Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (D-Tex). “I am proud to support passage of the TAIPEI Act and stand in solidarity with Taiwan, a free and thriving democracy.”

“The United States should use every tool to support Taiwan’s standing on the international stage,” continued Senator Gardner (R-Col). “This bipartisan legislation demands a whole-of-government approach to ramp up our support for Taiwan, and will send a strong message to nations that there will be consequences for supporting Chinese actions that undermine Taiwan. I applaud the U.S. House of Representatives for unanimously  advancing this critical bipartisan legislation, and I will continue to advocate on behalf of Taiwan and the Taiwanese people, as guided by United States law.”

Reacting to the bill, and most notably making mention of United Nations recognition of Taiwan, senior Democrat and Speaker of the United States House of Representatives, Nancy Pelosi also backed the pro-Taiwan legislation by adding : “For decades, the U.S. Congress on a bipartisan and bicameral basis has proudly stood with Taiwan, which is a key ally in the region and an important democratic partner.  Today, by passing the TAIPEI Act, Congress once again reaffirms our strong support for a free, open and democratic Taiwan.

“The TAIPEI Act celebrates and supports Taiwan’s commitment to democracy, by preserving and promoting its position on the international stage.  It is imperative that America encourages our allies and partners to strengthen their diplomatic ties with Taipei, and that we ensure that Taiwan has a seat at the international decision-making table, including at the United Nations.      

“Today and on all days, Congress continues to send a message to the world that America stands with Taiwan.  This important legislation will now go to the President’s desk, where we look forward to seeing it swiftly signed.”