Taiwan Allies Fund Act

International Affairs
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senate
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Introduced on May 10, 2024 by S. Raja Krishnamoorthi

Cosponsors

Legislation Details

  • The bill is designed to support Taiwan’s international presence and counteract diplomatic isolation efforts by the People’s Republic of China.
  • It acknowledges Taiwan as a significant contributor to global peace, stability, and democracy, with a population exceeding 23 million.
  • The legislation notes China’s long-term campaign to diplomatically isolate Taiwan, resulting in several countries severing diplomatic ties with Taiwan in favor of China.
  • It references the Taiwan Relations Act of 1979 and the Taiwan Allies International Protection and Enhancement Initiative (TAIPEI) Act of 2019, emphasizing U.S. policy to support Taiwan’s security and international relationships.
  • The bill expresses the U.S. Congress’s view that the U.S. should advocate for Taiwan’s inclusion in international organizations, promote and expand Taiwan’s diplomatic relations, and support countries that engage with Taiwan.
  • It authorizes the appropriation of $40,000,000 for each fiscal year from 2025 to 2027 to support Taiwan’s international space through the Countering PRC Influence Fund.
  • Eligible countries for this fund are those that maintain or have strengthened relations with Taiwan, have faced coercion from China due to their relationship with Taiwan, and lack the capability to resist such pressure without U.S. support.
  • The funds may be used for health initiatives, capacity building against Chinese influence, diversifying supply chains away from China, providing alternatives to Chinese development financing, advancing Taiwan’s participation in international organizations, and supporting technology infrastructure alternatives to Chinese options.
  • A limitation is placed that no eligible country may receive more than $5,000,000 in a fiscal year.
  • The Secretary of State, in consultation with various U.S. agencies and the American Institute in Taiwan, is tasked with coordinating and implementing the activities supported by the fund.
  • The bill encourages cost-sharing with Taiwan, suggesting that Taiwan should also contribute assistance to eligible countries.
  • It requires annual reporting to Congress on the activities and outcomes of the fund, including the level of Taiwan’s contribution.
  • The legislation clarifies that it does not limit or apply to U.S. foreign assistance not provided through the authorized appropriations of this act.
  • The term “appropriate congressional committees” is defined as the Committee on Foreign Affairs of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Foreign Relations of the Senate.

Last updated 9/28/2024