IL SR0283

Illinois reaffirms its sister-state relationship with Taiwan (Republic of China), established in 1992, based on shared values of freedom, democracy, human rights, rule of law, and prosperity.

Taiwan is the ninth largest trading partner of the United States with $66.6 billion in bilateral trade in 2015; Taiwan was Illinois' sixth largest export market in Asia in 2015 with $633.8 million in exports.

Illinois endorses Taiwan's efforts to negotiate a Bilateral Investment Agreement (BIA) and Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the United States to increase exports, investment, and technical collaboration through tariff reduction.

Illinois supports Taiwan's appropriate participation in international organizations affecting health, safety, and well-being of its people, and supports Taiwan's contributions to international humanitarian aid and disease control efforts.

Copies of the resolution shall be delivered to all members of the Illinois Congressional Delegation and the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Chicago.