SR 117: Relative to Taiwan.

WHEREAS, The year 2026 marks the 42nd anniversary of California-Taiwan sister statehood. Since this bond was established in 1984, Taiwan has enjoyed extensive, close, and friendly relations with the State of California and the United States; and

WHEREAS, This year also marks the 47th anniversary of the Taiwan Relations Act, which has helped maintain peace, security, and stability in the western Pacific region and promotes the continuation of commercial, cultural, and other relations between the people of the United States and the people of Taiwan; and

WHEREAS, Taiwanese American Heritage Week has been celebrated during the second week of May for over 26 years, has significantly promoted a shared community amongst various generations of Taiwanese Americans in California, and has tangibly strengthened the bilateral relationship between California and Taiwan in trade, science, technology, education, tourism, and culture; and

WHEREAS, This year also marks a momentous dual celebration of democratic milestones: the 30th anniversary of the first direct presidential election in Taiwan, demonstrating its resilience and steadfast commitment to democratic values, and the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States, a nation built upon the enduring principles of liberty and self-governance; and

WHEREAS, Taiwan has the ability and willingness to contribute to international society, and strives towards meaningful participation in important international organizations, such as the United Nations, the World Health Organization, the International Civil Aviation Organization, the International Criminal Police Organization, and the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change; and

WHEREAS, Taiwan now stands as California’s third largest trading partner, and Taiwan ranks as both the second largest goods import market and the third largest goods export market of California; and

WHEREAS, The Taiwanese American community staunchly supports democracy, human rights, and the rule of law, and the United States and Taiwan also share common ideals for a healthy, peaceful, and democratic 21st century; and

WHEREAS, The Taiwanese American community has demonstrated remarkable resilience and steadfast commitment to democratic values, which has inspired innumerable people from the State of California and around the globe, especially those of Taiwanese heritage; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the Senate of the State of California, That the Senate acknowledges that Taiwanese communities have made significant and indelible contributions to California’s economic growth and development over the years and encourages California’s government to further explore areas of cooperation with Taiwan; and be it further

Resolved, That the Senate recognizes the willingness of the Taiwanese people to participate in international organizations and supports Taiwan’s contributions to the international community through appropriate avenues; and be it further

Resolved, That the Senate declares that Taiwan’s democracy is crucial to the peace and prosperity of the Asia-Pacific region; and be it further

Resolved, That the Secretary of the Senate transmit copies of this resolution to the author for appropriate distribution.