Bill seeks to define commitment against Chinese aggression.
Bipartisan legislation was introduced in the Senate on Friday to overhaul U.S. policy toward Taiwan, defining key American commitments to the democratic island’s defense against a Chinese military invasion.
The Taiwan Policy Act of 2022 was introduced by Senators Bob Menendez of New Jersey and Lindsey Graham of South Carolina. The legislators said the proposed bill represents the most comprehensive restructuring of U.S. policy toward Taiwan in more than four decades.
“As Beijing continues to seek to coerce and isolate Taiwan there should be no doubt or ambiguity about the depth and strength of our determination to stand with the people of Taiwan and their democracy,” Senator Menendez, the chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, stated.
Currently, the Taiwan Relations Act of 1979 governs America’s commitments to the island and the new bill seeks to clarify that policy. The legislation also calls for $4.5 billion in security assistance for Taiwan over four years.
Beijing views the island as part of China and opposes any moves by foreign governments or international organizations that appear to legitimize Taiwan as an independent nation. Last week, China’s Defense Minister said that China will “not hesitate to start a war” and threatened to destroy Taiwan.
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For U.S. legislators to seek God’s wisdom as they work to clarify the nation’s position.
- For discernment for U.S. officials in China and other nations in the Indo-Pacific.
- For the president and members of Congress as they support Taiwan.
Sources: The Hill, Taipei Times, The Guardian
