A resolution filed by Senator Ana Maria Rodriguez (R-40) seeks to celebrate the economic and cultural ties between the State of Florida and Taiwan.
The resolution commends Taiwan for its vibrant relationship with the sunshine state in light of the recently held Taiwanese presidential elections.
The Chinese Communist Party (CCP), who claims Taiwan belongs to mainland China, had been reportedly attempting to interfere in the elections.
Despite Chinese pressure, Taiwan elected Lai Ching-te, the candidate least supported by the CCP.
The January elections reflects Taiwan’s “unwavering commitment to sustaining democracy in the shadow of a mighty adversary,” reads the resolution.
The resolution emphasizes the results of the election demonstrates Taiwanese people’s “will to safeguard the values of democracy and freedom.”
Additionally, this year marks the 32nd anniversary of Florida and Taiwan’s ‘sister state’ relationship.
According to the resolution, Taiwan is Florida’s fourth-largest bilateral merchandise trading partner in the Asia-Pacific region.
Miami, Orlando, and Fort Lauderdale also share ‘sister city’ relations with New Taipei City, Tainan City, and Kaohsiung city, respectively.
In March 2023, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis met with high-ranking Taiwanese officials to discuss cultural and economic ties between Florida and Taiwan.
The United States informally recognizes Taiwan’s independence but has not officially recognized Taiwan as a sovereign state in fear of destabilizing relations with the CCP.
Last October, Senators Marco Rubio (R-Fl) and Jeff Merkley (D-OR) reintroduced the Taiwan Relations Reinforcement Act to reinvigorate U.S. policy to support Taiwan.
The bill would encourage the United States Government to invite Taiwan to participate in bilateral and multilateral military training exercises. Additionally, it would create an interagency Taiwan policy task force and elevate the U.S. Representative to Taiwan to a Senate-confirmed position.
“This bipartisan bill is more important than ever as it reinforces our nation’s commitment to our democratic ally, Taiwan, and strengthens our bilateral ties,” said Rubio via press release.
