MS HC39

Encourages negotiation of a bilateral trade agreement (BTA) between the United States and Taiwan to strengthen economic ties, noting Taiwan was the 11th largest U.S. trading partner with $68.2 billion in bilateral trade in 2017.

Commends Taiwan's inclusion in the U.S. Visa Waiver Program (2012) and Global Entry Program (2017), which increased travel from Taiwan by over 50 percent and promotes cultural exchanges.

Supports Taiwan's meaningful participation in international organizations including INTERPOL, ICAO, UNFCCC, and WHA to address 21st century nontraditional security threats.

Celebrates the 40th anniversary of the Taiwan Relations Act of 1979 and the 36th anniversary of Mississippi-Taiwan sister-state relations, which generated $62 million in Mississippi exports to Taiwan in 2017.

Commends Peter Chen, Director General of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Houston, for enhancing cooperation between Mississippi and Taiwan.