US President Donald Trump has signed the TAIPEI Act into law. The act had earlier passed both houses of the US Congress unanimously.
The act is designed to help Taiwan keep its diplomatic allies in the face of Chinese pressure. Since 2016, eight allies have broken off ties with Taiwan in favor of ties with Beijing.
Under the act, the US may reward countries that stick with Taiwan with an increased diplomatic presence or expanded assistance. It can also reduce or terminate its diplomatic presence in countries that move to downgrade their ties with Taiwan, and limit or cut off aid to them as well.
The act also provides US support for Taiwan’s participation in international organizations.
US President Donald Trump signed the act into law on Thursday. Both Taiwan’s Presidential Office and foreign ministry have welcomed the move.