The National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023 signed into law Dec. 23 by U.S. President Biden and the omnibus spending bill passed the same day by the U.S. House of Representatives are sincerely appreciated by the government and people, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said.
The two pieces of legislation demonstrate the importance the U.S. attaches to the bilateral ties and Taiwan’s security, the ministry said, adding that they also reaffirm strong support from the U.S. legislative branch to enhance cooperation with Taiwan across the board.
According to the MOFA, the bills stipulate up to US$2 billion per year in foreign military financing to Taiwan between 2023 and 2027 and the establishment of the Taiwan Fellowship Act.
The bills also request that the U.S. executive branch to help strengthen Taiwan’s defense capabilities and enhance interoperability and capability for joint operations under the International Military Education and Training program, the ministry added.
In addition, the bills ask that the State Department and USAID work with regional allies and partners including Taiwan to expand cooperation in Pacific island states, as well as increase the funding for the Global Cooperation and Training Framework from US$3 million to US$4 million.
Based on Taiwan’s national development policies, the MOFA said the government will continue to work closely with the U.S. to ensure the smooth implementation of these measures and promote regional peace and stability. (SFC-E)
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