Sen. Cruz Urges Administration to Work Swiftly to Establish U.S.-Taiwan Free Trade Agreement
HOUSTON, Texas - Following Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen's announcement easing restrictions on imports of U.S beef and pork, U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) applauded the move and urged United States Trade Representative, Ambassador Robert Lighthizer to pursue a U.S.-Taiwan Trade Agreement:
"It is vitally important for the United States to further deepen our relationship with Taiwan and strengthen our Taiwanese allies, which is to our mutual benefit and necessary to counter escalating threats from the Chinese Communist Party. Today's announcement from President Tsai is welcome news in that regard, and presents an opportunity to expeditiously conclude a free trade agreement between us. It will also provide immediate benefits for hardworking livestock ranchers in Texas and across the country who will be able to sell their goods to even more consumers around the world. I look forward to working with Ambassador Lighthizer and the administration to ensure a deal is reached swiftly that will enhance fair and reciprocal trade, increase American prosperity, and strengthen our diplomatic ties with Taiwan."
Sen. Cruz has long emphasized the importance of standing alongside Taiwan, especially as the Chinese Communist Party works to undermine Taiwan's freedom and democracy. Last October, Sen. Cruz visited Taiwan during his Indo-Pacific ‘Friends & Allies Tour'. There, Sen. Cruz:
- Met with Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen.
- Participated in a press conference with Minister of Foreign Affairs Jaushieh Joseph Wu.
- Attended Taiwan's National Day ceremony - the first United States Senator to attend in 35 years.
Additionally, Sen. Cruz has sought to strengthen the U.S.-Taiwan relationship. Specifically, Sen. Cruz:
- Secured and supported a variety of provisions in the FY2020, FY2019, and FY2018 NDAAs, which reaffirm and advance the United States' support for Taiwan.
- Has repeatedly warned allies to resist China's attempts to isolate Taiwan, including Kiribati, Solomon Islands, Dominican Republic, and Panama.
- Called for the United States to transfer F-16s and conduct regular arms sales to Taiwan.
- Met with Taiwan President Tsai in Houston, despite the protest of the Chinese consulate.
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