Taiwan Stands Resolute Against China
I recently returned from Taiwan—a republic crucial to global economies and American security. This island, home to 23 million freedom-loving souls, stands amidst the ambitions of Xi Jinping. Seated merely 90 miles from China’s coast, Taiwan faces an increasingly aggressive adversary. Xi dreams of emulating Mao Zedong, known for causing more deaths than any other leader in history. His ambitions threaten Taiwan’s liberty and lives.
Taiwan’s Economic Impact
Though Taiwan lies roughly 7,600 miles from Mississippi, its significance isn’t diminished by distance. Taiwan is pivotal to the global economy and, interestingly, was America’s seventh-largest trading partner just last year. This island produces most of the world’s semiconductors, the vital components powering computers, cars, and phones, and integral to military systems. Learn more on Taiwan’s semiconductor industry [here](https://www.bbc.com/news/business-57838951).
If China seized those factories, it could wield the global economy as a bargaining chip, impacting countless jobs in Mississippi reliant on these components.
Moreover, an invasion would menace nearby nations like Japan and South Korea, which ranked fifth and sixth in trade with America in 2024. Sixty percent of the global population resides in the Pacific region. Chinese control would imperil trade with this vast marketplace.
National Security Considerations
My visit to Taiwan had a definitive purpose—highlighting its role in national defence as the Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee. It’s a matter of strategic importance for Mississippi as well.
I visited several American bases in the Pacific and met Mississippian service members there. Democratic countries in the region have invested in hosting our military forces, thereby complicated adversarial efforts to reach the western United States. This network of bases assures security for host nations.
If China attacked Taiwan and we did not respond, these nations might question our commitment, leading to the need to retreat as far back as Hawaii or Guam. This would make the U.S. more vulnerable. A free Taiwan assures these Pacific nations and supports our defense forces stationed there.
In the late 1970s, Congress enacted the Taiwan Relations Act to define America’s relationship with Taiwan. We have reaffirmed this through continued support, including provisions for Taiwan to secure necessary defensive materials. More about the [Taiwan Relations Act](https://www.congress.gov/bill/96th-congress/house-bill/2479).
I hope for a robust partnership in weapon production with Taiwan, enhancing both economies and championing freedom. Together, we bolster liberty and security.
Standing with Taiwan
During my visit, I conversed with Taiwan’s esteemed leaders, including the president and defense secretary. Our discussions conveyed Congress’s long-term friendship with this resilient republic. I stand with Taiwan, valuing self-determination—a principle Americans hold dear. Their resolve shines as a beacon of hope worldwide.
Conclusion
In sum, a subdued Taiwan would spell disaster economically and defensively for the Pacific and beyond. International efforts, like my journey, strive to avert such catastrophes and fortify the bonds with our Taiwanese allies.
