Gardner introduces bill to strengthen ties between United States, Taiwan

Legislation announced by U.S. Sen. Cory Gardner (R-CO) on Monday would strengthen diplomatic relations between the United States and Taiwan and bolster Taiwan’s role in the international community.

The Taiwan Security Act (TSA) would require diplomatic exchanges between U.S. and Taiwanese officials ranking at or above the level of flag officer and assistant secretary, and it would reestablish talks between the two countries on arms sales.

“This legislation takes a significant step forward to demonstrate that the United States will take all necessary steps to support our ally and friend, Taiwan,” Gardner said. “The Taiwan Security Act ensures our government will enhance mutually-beneficial security, diplomatic and economic ties with Taipei, which will promote Taiwan’s international standing and help ensure peace and stability in the region.”

Under TSA, Taiwanese forces would be invited to take part in Rim of the Pacific naval exercises and Red Flag air-to-air combat exercises in 2018. Navy port visits between the two countries would be required.

U.S. Sen. Tom Cotton (R-AR), who introduced the bill with Gardner, said China’s escalating pressure on Taiwan has not elicited a serious response from the United States for too long.

“This legislation would send an overdue message to China to halt its aggressive behavior,” Cotton said. “Strong security, economic and cultural ties with Taipei have always advanced U.S. interests in Asia, and created conditions for Taiwan’s free-market democracy to flourish. Enhancing those ties now will ensure that China’s petulant actions will not disturb the peace across the Taiwan Strait.”

The measure would also express congressional support for Taiwan’s commitment to break off economic ties with North Korea and to spend 3 percent of its gross domestic product on defense.