U.S. senator introduces bill to deter PRC aggression, defend Taiwan

Washington, Oct. 6 (CNA) U.S Senator Jim Risch on Monday introduced the Deter PRC Aggression Against Taiwan Act, aimed at strengthening Washington's ability to respond to any Chinese military or political move against Taiwan, according to the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.

The bill would create an interagency "China Sanctions Task Force," also referred to as a "Tiger Team," led by the State and Treasury departments to identify Chinese military and non-military targets for potential sanctions, export controls and other economic measures in the event of Chinese aggression toward Taiwan, the committee said in a news release.

The task force would also assess resource gaps and recommend new authorities to enhance the United States' use of sanctions and other economic tools, while coordinating with allies and partners, the release said.

It would brief Congress and issue annual reports outlining its work and recommendations for more effectively responding to China's coercive or malign actions.

"We won't allow our friends to be bullied," the statement quoted committee chairman Risch as saying. "China's escalating coercive actions are part of its strategy to intimidate Taiwan and other countries in Asia into submission."

Drawing from lessons learned by the U.S. and its partners in sanctioning Russia after it invaded Ukraine, the legislation "will ensure America is prepared to hit China where it hurts should China follow through on its threats to use violent force against Taiwan," he said.

The bill calls for immediate sanctions on any entities owned, controlled, or directed by the Chinese government or Communist Party if they attempt to overthrow Taiwan's government, seize its territory, or take actions such as a naval blockade, occupation of outlying islands, or major cyberattacks undermining its institutions.

The measure will now go to the Senate and House for consideration before it can be signed into law by the president.