TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The visiting U.S. congress delegation urged closer cooperation between Taiwan and the U.S. during a meeting with President-elect Lai Ching-te (賴清德) on Tuesday (April 23).
Representative Lisa McClain said it was important to foster a stronger partnership between Taiwan and the U.S. that encompasses economic exchanges as well as military cooperation to achieve peace, according to the Presidential Office. She called for the continuous deepening of bilateral economic and trade ties.
Representative Dan Kildee said he and his fellow lawmakers shared a commitment to supporting the Taiwanese. The recent passage of the Indo-Pacific Security Supplemental Appropriations Act provides crucial support for security in the Indo-Pacific region, which is essential for Taiwan, the U.S., and the global community, Kildee said.
As a member of the House Budget Committee, Kildee said he was satisfied with the progress made in Taiwan-U.S. trade and looked forward to the finalization of the Taiwan-U.S. Trade and Investment Framework Agreement.
Representative Mark Alford said the purpose of the delegation's visit was to witness Taiwan's democracy, freedom, and the determination of its people, and to encourage both governments to maintain their commitment to the Taiwan Relations Act. Alford said the Indo-Pacific Security Supplemental Appropriations Act reaffirmed the provision of military hardware and services to Taiwan and assistance in strengthening Taiwan's defense capabilities.
He emphasized the importance of maintaining U.S. military readiness to deter and respond to acts of aggression against other nations. The representative also said unity was key to confronting current threats and advocated for collective efforts to promote and protect freedom and democracy in the Indo-Pacific region.
The delegation will meet with President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) and Minister of Foreign Affairs Joseph Wu (吳釗燮) to discuss Taiwan-U.S. relations, the situation in the Taiwan Strait, and regional security. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the visit demonstrates the U.S. Congress’ solid support for Taiwan and Taiwan Strait security.
The trip will also deepen their understanding of Taiwan and promote a closer Taiwan-U.S. partnership, the ministry added.
