Rep. Gallego Passes Amendments to Strengthen US-Taiwan Relationship
WASHINGTON, DC – Today, the House Armed Services Committee passed amendments to the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), introduced by Rep. Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), to strengthen cooperation and coordination between the United States and Taiwan in order to protect our national security and businesses and to improve responses to future pandemics.
The first amendment requires the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Health and Human Services to explore development of a U.S.-Taiwan medical security partnership on issues related to pandemic preparedness and control, including research and production of vaccines and medications, joint conferences with scientists and experts, exchanges of medical supplies and equipment, and the use of hospital ships.
The second amendment requires the Secretary of Defense to explore the feasibility of establishing a U.S.-Taiwan working group to coordinate on supply chain security.
"This Administration's response to the COVID-19 crisis was appallingly shortsighted and frankly, embarrassing – it cost thousands of American lives. We must immediately take proactive steps so we are prepared and ready to handle the next pandemic, including forming important partnerships with our allies abroad," said Rep. Gallego. "Taiwan is a key partner and can help us with pandemic preparedness and ensuring supply chain security. My amendments will make sure that our government properly explores better ways to learn from responsible friends like Taiwan."
Rep. Gallego is a Marine Corps combat veteran who served in Iraq. He serves on the House Armed Services Committee.