On August 15, the California State Senate unanimously passed a pro-Taiwan resolution with a vote of 37-0, marking the first time in nearly a decade that such a resolution has been approved. The resolution emphasizes the importance of Taiwan’s democracy for peace and prosperity in the Asia-Pacific region and expresses support for Taiwan to contribute to the international community through appropriate means.
The California State Senate, with a total of 40 seats, led by Majority Leader Dave Cortese, passed the pro-Taiwan resolution on the 15th with 3 absentees, garnering 37 votes in favor and 0 against.
This resolution was jointly pushed by the offices in San Francisco, Los Angeles, and with leaders like Cortese who are supportive of Taiwan, as it is no easy task to gather enough support to stand with Taiwan in California, where there is a large Chinese diaspora.
The resolution notes that this year marks the 40th anniversary of the sister-state relationship between California and Taiwan. Since 1984, Taiwan has maintained friendly relations with California and the United States. This year also marks the 45th anniversary of the Taiwan Relations Act and the 25th anniversary of the establishment of the Taiwan-US Cultural Heritage Week by former U.S. President Bill Clinton. This resolution serves as a significant milestone in bilateral relations.
During the vote, Cortese strongly supported Taiwan, citing that Taiwan is California’s third-largest trading partner, with bilateral trade amounting to $38 billion. Additionally, Taiwan is the tenth-largest export market for California agricultural products, with annual trade volume reaching $380 million.
The resolution emphasizes that Taiwan has the capability and willingness to contribute to the international community, actively and meaningfully participating in important international organizations. The Taiwanese American community steadfastly supports democracy, human rights, and the rule of law, sharing a common ideal with the U.S. in building a healthy, peaceful, and democratic 21st century.
The California State Senate acknowledges the significant and indelible contributions made by the Taiwanese community to California’s economic growth and development over the years. The resolution encourages the California government to further explore areas of cooperation with Taiwan and support Taiwan in contributing to the international community through appropriate means.
Lastly, the resolution underscores the critical importance of Taiwan’s democracy for peace and prosperity in the Asia-Pacific region.