MS HR76

Encourages negotiation of a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the United States and Taiwan to expand bilateral economic relations beyond the current $85.5 billion in annual trade.

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

Celebrates Mississippi's 37-year sister-state relationship with Taiwan, noting Taiwan is Mississippi's 4th largest Asian trading partner with nearly $45 million in exports in 2019.

Commends Taiwan's inclusion in the U.S. Visa Waiver Program (since 2012) and Global Entry Program (since 2017) as mechanisms to promote tourism and cultural exchanges.

Recognizes Taiwan as the 12th most competitive economy globally with innovation capabilities ranked in the world's top four, and acknowledges Peter C.Y. Chen, Director General of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Houston, for enhancing Mississippi-Taiwan cooperation.