Bill > HR3563

This bill aims to improve defense cooperation between the United States and Taiwan by enhancing the country's status and defense capabilities. The bill recognizes Taiwan as a critical strategic partner, noting it is the 7th largest U.S. trading partner and is currently treated as a major non-NATO ally. The legislation proposes to designate Taiwan as a member of the "NATO Plus" community, which would afford it similar rights and privileges as other close U.S. allies like Japan, Australia, and Israel. The bill mandates that for a 5-year period, Taiwan will be treated similarly to other close allies under various provisions of the Arms Export Control Act, which will streamline defense article and service transfers. This includes expediting foreign military sales (FMS) and reducing bureaucratic barriers to defense cooperation. The bill builds upon previous legislative efforts like the Taiwan Relations Act and the Taiwan Assurance Act, which have historically supported Taiwan's self-defense capabilities. The Secretary of State is authorized to extend this enhanced cooperation status for additional 5-year periods if deemed in the U.S. national security interest. Notably, the bill highlights Taiwan's significant historical investment in U.S. defense acquisitions, being the largest FMS customer in fiscal year 2020 and the third-largest overall customer since 1950.

Military Affairs and Security

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/3563/all-info