IL HR0115

Congratulates the Republic of China (Taiwan) on its inclusion in the U.S. Visa Waiver Program effective November 1, 2012, making it the 37th member country and 5th Asian country with visa-free status.

Expresses support for Taiwan's efforts to join the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) trade agreement and welcomes U.S.-Taiwan trade talks under the Trade and Investment Framework Agreement (TIFA) scheduled for March 11-12, 2013 in Taipei.

Recognizes Illinois' strong economic relationship with Taiwan, including $1.2 billion in exports to Taiwan in 2011 (ranking 5th among U.S. states) and $739.24 million in agricultural exports that year.

Reaffirms support for Taiwan's meaningful participation with observer status in the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) to enhance global airline safety and security in the Asia-Pacific region.

Directs copies of the resolution be sent to U.S. Secretary of State John F. Kerry, ICAO Secretary General Raymond Benjamin, and the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Chicago.