TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — US lawmakers in California called for closer diplomatic ties between Washington and Taipei on Friday (Sept. 6) at a roundtable discussion that highlighted the importance of Taiwan for California’s local economy. 

The event, titled “Global Ties; Local Impact: Why Taiwan Matters for California,” was hosted by Representative Young Kim, with Representative Jay Obernolte and leaders of the local Taiwanese-American community in attendance. Intending to safeguard and bolster California’s economy, Kim and Obernolte noted the importance of establishing formal relations between the US and Taiwan, reported Daily Breeze. 

The purpose of the meeting was to highlight the critical relationship shared by Taiwan and California. The speakers at the event, held at Santiago Canyon College, discussed how California’s state industries could be threatened if China pursues more aggressive action towards Taiwan. 

Kim, who chairs the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on the Indo-Pacific, said the effects on California’s high-tech industries would be “devastating.” She added that “Taiwan is truly becoming a ‘here and now’ issue,” which “concerns every American, not just DC,” reported the Daily Breeze.  

“If Taiwan is blockaded, or attacked, there are tremendous economic implications,” which Kim said would undoubtedly “affect livelihoods in California.” 

The discussion highlighted the importance of Taiwan’s economy for California, in comparison to the limitations placed on US leaders to formally engage with Taipei. “The people of Taiwan should be treated the same way we treat other countries,” said Oberbnolte, who is a member of the Congressional Taiwan Caucus. 

A video recording of the event is available on YouTube.