MS HR65

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

Commends Taiwan's inclusion in the U.S. Global Entry and Visa Waiver programs, which increased Taiwan travel to the U.S. by over 50 percent since 2012 and promotes economic and cultural exchanges.

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

Celebrates the 40th anniversary of the Taiwan Relations Act of 1979 and the 36th anniversary of Mississippi-Taiwan sister-state relations, noting Mississippi exported $62 million in goods and services to Taiwan in 2017.

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