Barr, 66 colleagues unveil bipartisan resolution supporting U.S. relations with Taiwan

U.S. Rep. Andy Barr (R-KY) joined a bipartisan group of 66 congressional members to propose a resolution reaffirming the United States’ commitment to Taiwan and commemorating the 45th anniversary of the enactment of the Taiwan Relations Act.

“For the past 45 years, the Taiwan Relations Act has been a cornerstone of peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region, embodying the strong and unwavering commitment of the United States to Taiwan,” said Rep. Barr, a co-chair of the Congressional Taiwan Caucus. “The United States is proud to have a deep and dynamic partnership with Taiwan, one that is based on mutual respect, shared democratic values, and a common commitment to freedom.”

If enacted, House Resolution (H.Res.) 1127, which U.S. Rep. Ami Bera (D-CA) sponsored on April 10 alongside 66 original cosponsors, including Rep. Barr, would establish several resolutions for the U.S. House of Representatives, according to the text of the measure.

For instance, the resolution would resolve that the House reaffirms “unwavering commitment to the Taiwan Relations Act,” and would reiterate that the President of the United States should continue regular transfers of defense articles to Taiwan, consistent with Taiwan’s self-defense requirements.

Additionally, H.Res. 1127 would call on the U.S. Secretary of State to actively engage internationally in support of Taiwan’s membership or meaningful participation in international organizations; reaffirm the importance of cultivating close ties through initiatives such as the Fulbright Program and the Taiwan Fellowship Program; and acknowledge the important work done by the American Institute in Taiwan and the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in support of United States-Taiwan interests.

“Taiwan’s engagement in international organizations to address shared challenges in public health, climate change, and democratic resilience exemplify its capabilities to be a force for good in the Indo-Pacific and across the globe,” said Rep. Bera. “The United States remains steadfast in support of the people of Taiwan and our shared commitment to democratic values and the rule of law.”

U.S. Sens. Marco Rubio (R-FL) and Jeff Merkley (D-OR) introduced a companion resolution in their chamber, according to Rep. Barr’s staff.