| "It is not lost on Members of Congress that there are parallels being drawn between the escalating Russia-Ukraine tension and the growing threat to Taiwan from China. We want to assure you that our priority of protecting Taiwan remains intact and our commitment to promoting the sovereignty of Taiwan is only strengthened in light of current events."wrote the lawmakers."The world is at a pivotal moment in terms of international diplomacy – will the next century be defined by our shared ideals of freedom and democracy or shadowed by authoritarian dictators who want to replicate and export their autocratic campaign of control around the world? To be clear: posturing by bad actors, like Russia and the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), will not deter our steadfast support for Taiwan and democracy globally."
The full text of the letter can be found below:
Dear Ambassador Hsiao,
In the wake of ongoing geopolitical turmoil and rising international threats, we write to reaffirm our commitment to supporting Taiwan as a sovereign nation.
It is not lost on Members of Congress that there are parallels being drawn between the escalating Russia-Ukraine tension and the growing threat to Taiwan from China. We want to assure you that our priority of protecting Taiwan remains intact and our commitment to promoting the sovereignty of Taiwan is only strengthened in light of current events.
As you know, Iowa and Taiwan have a long and special relationship. Iowa and Taiwan have been bonded through our sister cities for over three decades – a commitment Iowa not only treasures but also depends upon, as Taiwan is one of our most important agricultural product markets.
The world is at a pivotal moment in terms of international diplomacy – will the next century be defined by our shared ideals of freedom and democracy or shadowed by authoritarian dictators who want to replicate and export their autocratic campaign of control around the world? To be clear: posturing by bad actors, like Russia and the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), will not deter our steadfast support for Taiwan and democracy globally.
We are not afraid of the CCP, and we will continue to fight against the CCP’s malign actions, and for policies that stifle its expanding influence. China needs to be held accountable for its treatment of the Uyghur population and other minority groups as well as its military aggression. The United States must lead by example – we must decrease our trade dependence on China and instead, emphasize relationships with trusted partners, like Taiwan, who share our values and will not taint supply chains with slave labor and distrust.
We were appalled by the CCP’s recent decision to send the largest military aircraft threat since October into Taiwan’s air-defense identification zone – we are monitoring this escalation and are keeping a close eye on any developments. We stand with Taiwan’s efforts for peace and self-determination.
Sincerely,
Ashley Hinson
Mariannette Miller-Meeks
Randy Feenstra
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