The US House of Representatives has passed a wide-ranging defense policy bill that calls for more military cooperation between the United States and Taiwan. The bill in question, the 2022 National Defense Authorization Act, passed easily on Thursday night by 316 votes to 133.
Three sections of the bill have direct implications for Taiwan. The most important section would invite Taiwan’s navy to take part in the 2022 Rim of the Pacific military exercise.
The US Navy fleet describes the exercise, which takes place every two years, as “a unique training opportunity that strengthens international maritime partnerships”. In 2020, Japan, France, South Korea, and Canada were among several countries to send forces to take part in the training events.
Another section of the bill would require the US defense secretary to report on the possibility of “enhanced cooperation” between the US National Guard and Taiwan.
The final section relating to Taiwan reaffirms the stance of Congress on the United States’ defense relations with Taiwan. It says that the United States “should continue to support the development of capable, ready, and modern defense forces” necessary for Taiwan to defend itself.