Gregory Meeks: “And I rise in strong support of H.R. 1159. This legislation introduced by Mrs. Wagner, the vice chair of the House…”

“And I rise in strong support of H.R. 1159. This legislation introduced by Mrs. Wagner, the vice chair of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, and Messrs. Connolly and Lawler, House Foreign Affairs Committee members, showcases this body's steadfast, bipartisan commitment to Taiwan. As a vibrant democracy and reliable partner of the United States of America, Taiwan has long been a force for good in promoting prosperity and development in the Indo-Pacific and beyond. Our robust and longstanding friendship is built on our shared values of democracy and good governance, strong people-to-people ties, and ever-expanding commercial and economic engagement. When I visited Taiwan with Speaker Pelosi last year, the reception we received from the people was nothing short of incredible. We were welcomed with open arms. Thousands of people greeted us as the plane landed. More than that viewed us as our trip took its way to Taiwan. Our trip demonstrated that Members of Congress will not be dictated to by Beijing and that we will not sit idly by as Beijing attempts to intimidate and coerce our friend. The people of Taiwan showed us tremendous respect and affection, so much so it was in a way that I believe demonstrates their confidence that the United States Congress will continue to stand up for them.…”