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Visiting U.S. lawmaker reaffirms commitment to Indo-Pacific security

ROC Central News Agency

10/12/2022 01:38 PM

Taipei, Oct. 12 (CNA) Visiting United States congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson said the U.S.' commitment to the security of the Indo-Pacific region was "stronger than ever," during a meeting with President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) in Taipei on Wednesday.

"I am in Taiwan...to remind the world that our commitment and shared responsibility for a free and secure Indo-Pacific region remains stronger than ever," said Johnson, who arrived in Taiwan on Sunday for a four-day visit and took part in the Republic of China's National Day celebration in Taipei on Monday.

Describing Taiwan as "a vital trading partner" for the U.S. and its allies, Johnson, who serves as chairwoman of the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee, said the U.S.-Taiwan relationship is "essential to our national and economic security."

The Democratic Party lawmaker from Texas also said that she looked forward to strengthening the bond between Texas and Taiwan and "continuing my dialogue with President Tsai to create even more opportunity and a better future for our countries."

Also joining Johnson in the meeting with Tsai were four other members of the House of Representatives who arrived in Taiwan on Tuesday for a three-day visit, including Democratic lawmakers Seth Moulton and Kai Kahele and Republican lawmakers Brad Wenstrup and Michael Waltz.

Echoing Johnson's comments, Moulton said the relationship between Taiwan and the U.S. is founded on the shared values of freedom, democracy, and the rule of law.

"We look forward to strengthening and deepening the economic partnership between Taiwan and America," he said.

Meanwhile, Tsai said Taiwan was willing to further deepen cooperation with the U.S. and all democratic partners to contribute to regional and global peace and stability.

She also expressed hope that the visiting U.S. lawmakers would continue supporting Taiwan in Congress and back the signing of a double taxation avoidance agreement between Taiwan and the U.S.

Taiwan's Ministry of Finance said in July that Taiwan and the U.S. had inked taxation-related deals, such as a transportation income tax agreement in 1988.

The two countries, however, have not entered into a comprehensive and reciprocal tax treaty that includes the reduction or elimination of double taxation on individuals and businesses with operations in each other's country, according to the ministry.

(By Teng Pei-ju)

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