Washington, DC - Today, Representatives Gregory W. Meeks and Michael McCaul, Chairman and Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, along with Representatives Ami Bera and Steve Chabot, Chairman and Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Asia, the Pacific, Central Asia, and Nonproliferation, issued the following statement ahead of Taiwan’s National Day on October 10.

“We extend our congratulations and warmest wishes to the people of Taiwan on your National Day. As longstanding friends of Taiwan, we join you in celebrating this important day in Taiwan’s history. 

“Taiwan has been a reliable and generous partner in promoting prosperity and development in the Indo-Pacific and beyond. From advancing global health to strengthening aviation safety, the people of Taiwan have demonstrated their willingness and capability to be a force for good in the world. Our friendship has only been strengthened by our shared commitment to the values of democracy, good governance, and a free and open society, and we are pleased to see other countries increasingly appreciate Taiwan for the partner and friend it is.  

“Despite Taiwan’s meaningful contributions to the international community, however, its democracy, security, and international space are increasingly challenged. Just earlier this week, we saw a record number of People’s Liberation Army aircraft enter airspace near Taiwan, in an unprecedented effort to intimidate Taiwan and erode the resolve of the people of Taiwan. As Members of Congress, we stand with our democratic friends in Taiwan and will continue to work with Taipei to condemn and deter against such bullying. 

“We look forward to working with Taiwan to deepen and strengthen our economic, security, and people-to-people ties, as well as bolster Taiwan’s international participation, so that our partnership continues to advance our shared interests and values.”