Washington, D.C. – Today, the House Foreign Affairs Committee, chaired by U.S. Rep. Ed Royce (R-CA), passed, as amended, the Taiwan Policy Act of 2013 (H.R. 419), bipartisan legislation that expresses support for Taiwan and strengthens the U.S.-Taiwan relationship politically, economically and through security assistance.

[A summary of the Committee action, including text of all amendments adopted, will be posted HERE this afternoon.]

Chairman Royce on the bill’s passage:  “I applaud the Committee’s passage of this important legislation, which strengthens the Taiwan-U.S. partnership.  As we work to advance trade, human rights, and security in this important region, today’s legislation sends a strong message of support to our democratic ally”    

NOTE:  Earlier this year, Royce led a bipartisan delegation to Taiwan.  Royce is a recognized leader in strengthening relations between the U.S. and Taiwan.  In 2012, Royce successfully championed legislative efforts in Congress to grant visa waiver travel from Taiwan to the U.S.  Earlier this month, President Obama signed into law legislation introduced by Royce that calls for the Secretary of State to endorse Taiwan’s entry into the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

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