Three Curtis-led bills advance through the Senate Foreign Relations Committee
Washington, D.C. – Today, the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee advanced three bills led or co-led by U.S. Senator John Curtis (R-UT) on a bipartisan basis that strengthen partner and U.S. relations with Taiwan, combat China’s environmental degradation, and protect Taiwan from Chinese threats to their infrastructure. Following the Committee’s action, Senator Curtis issued the statement below:
“Today’s passage of these bipartisan bills demonstrates Congress’ commitment to standing with our allies and safeguarding American interests from exploitation and coercion. From strengthening Taiwan’s resilience to defending the world’s oceans, the Committee actions today show the Senate is stepping up to address the challenges posed by China.”
The bills:
Taiwan Undersea Cable Resilience Initiative Act: Legislation to protect Taiwan’s critical communications infrastructure and deter malicious “gray zone” activities by the People’s Republic of China. The cables—critical for global communication and commerce—have been a primary target of the PRC for undercover sabotage to undermine Taiwan’s security and sovereignty. Read more here.
Taiwan Allies Fund Act: Legislation to strengthen Taiwan’s international space and counter coercive pressure from the Chinese Communist Party. The bill assigns a segment of already-authorized funding to support Taiwan’s official and unofficial partners that face economic coercion and diplomatic intimidation from China because of their relations with Taiwan. The bill underscores the importance of expanding Taiwan’s global network of friends, empowering smaller nations to resist undue pressure, and reinforcing Taiwan’s important role in the world. Read more here.
Protecting Global Fisheries Act: Legislation to counter illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing, which China systematically engages in. This legislation protects marine ecosystems and the food security of countries around the globe. With provisions to authorize targeted sanctions and strengthen interagency reporting and international cooperation, this bill elevates U.S. efforts to protect sustainable fishing practices and maritime security. Read more here.