U.S. lawmaker introduces Taiwan Invasion Prevention Act

Washington, July 29 (CNA) U.S. Congressman Ted Yoho on Wednesday announced the introduction of the Taiwan Invasion Prevention Act, which would authorize the United States to respond militarily if China resorts to the use of force against Taiwan.

In a statement, Yoho, ranking member of the U.S. House of Representative's Subcommittee on Asian Affairs, said the bill would "clarify and strengthen the commitment of the United States to defend Taiwan in the event of an armed attack."

"The U.S. policy of strategic ambiguity towards Taiwan, initially implemented to avoid provoking Beijing to attack Taiwan and encourage peaceful relations, has clearly failed," he said.

A longtime supporter of Taiwan, Yoho believes the U.S. needs to establish a clear red line over Taiwan that must not be crossed by China.

"As a vibrant democracy with nearly 24 million people, the U.S. is obligated to stand strong in support of Taiwan and encourage a return to peaceful relations between Taiwan and China," the lawmaker explained.

The bill also highlights the fact that since the election of President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) in 2016, the Chinese government has intensified its efforts to pressure Taiwan through diplomatic isolation, and most notably, military provocations.

"It is the policy of the United States to consider any effort to determine the future of Taiwan by anything other than peaceful means, including by boycotts or embargoes, a threat to the peace and security of the Western Pacific area, and of grave concern to the United States," it read.

According to the legislation, "the authorization for use of the Armed Forces under this section shall expire on the date that is 5 years after the date of the enactment of this Act."

Meanwhile, the Taiwan Invasion Prevention Act also suggests establishing a series of security dialogues and combined military exercises by the U.S., Taiwan, and like minded security partners.

Other notable proposals include promoting a bilateral trade agreement between the U.S. and Taiwan, encouraging the U.S. President, or Secretary of State, to meet with the President of Taiwan in Taiwan, and welcoming the President of Taiwan to address a Joint Meeting of Congress.