Van Hollen, Romney Introduce Bipartisan Taiwan International Solidarity Act

U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on East Asia, The Pacific, & International Cybersecurity Policy and Senator Mitt Romney (R-Utah), Ranking Member of the Subcommittee have introduced bipartisan legislation to support Taiwan’s ability to participate in international organizations.

“As a thriving democracy with a strong economy, Taiwan has an important role to play within the international community in helping to address shared challenges, such as global health, climate change, and security threats. But the People’s Republic of China continues to block Taiwan from having a seat at many of the tables where these issues are discussed. This is unacceptable. Our bill directs the American government to undertake a concerted effort to counter the Chinese Government’s baseless efforts to block Taiwan from its critical role in international affairs,” said Senator Van Hollen.

“Taiwan is a trusted partner of ours for peace, democracy, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region, yet China works relentlessly to prevent Taiwan from having a seat at the table at international organizations,” Senator Romney said. “The United States must use its stature on the world stage to push back against China’s efforts and ensure that Taiwan can meaningfully contribute to these bodies.”

This legislation strengthens the TAIPEI Act of 2019 (P.L. 116-135) to clarify that U.N. General Assembly Resolution 2758 does not preclude the United States from using its vote, voice, and influence to resist the reckless campaign against Taiwan’s place on the world stage. It instructs the United States to use its voice, vote, and influence to resist Beijing’s efforts to distort the decisions, language, policies, or procedures of international organizations regarding Taiwan.  It also encourages the U.S. to work with allies and partners to oppose the People’s Republic of China’s efforts to undermine Taiwan’s diplomatic relationships and partnerships globally. And the bill expands reporting requirements to include information relating to any prior or ongoing attempts by the People’s Republic of China to undermine Taiwan’s participation in international organizations as well as its ties and relationships with other countries.

This bill is a companion to legislation introduced in the House by Reps. Gerry Connolly (D-VA) and John Curtis (R-UT), which the House passed on July 25, 2023.