President Tsai-Ing wen (蔡英文, middle) and Representative Ed Royce (left)

Taipei, Sept. 1 (CNA) President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) on Friday presented U.S. Rep. Ed Royce with a special medal in recognition of his long-term support for Taiwan.

Royce received the Order of Brilliant Star with Special Grand Cordon, which is presented to individuals who make a major contribution to the country.

As one of Taiwan's most loyal and important friends, Royce fully deserves the medal, Tsai said.

As chairman of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, Royce has actively promoted legislation friendly to Taiwan, including a resolution reaffirming the Six Assurances and the Taiwan Relations Act as the cornerstone of Taiwan-U.S. relations.

He was also involved in drafting laws authorizing the sale of Perry-class guided missile frigates to Taiwan and backing the nation's participation in the World Health Assembly (WHA), the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the International Criminal Police Organization, she noted.

Tsai noted that support from U.S. congressional leaders such as Royce is what allows Taiwan-U.S. relations to remain close and strong.

Royce mentioned a trip he made to Kaohsiung on Thursday, where he visited a Perry-class frigate sold by the United States to Taiwan.

He described the journey as having special significance, because the sale was made possible by a law passed by the U.S. Congress in 2013.

He pledged to continue to work for Taiwan's future and do what is right, by seeking to enhance U.S-Taiwan cooperation on defense and arms sales and speaking up for Taiwan to be able to participate in the WHA and ICAO.

(By Sophia Yeh and Y.F. Low)
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