Thread by @anniekowalewski

Proud to have worked on the #TaiwanPolicyActof2022 and getting it passed through @SenateForeign yesterday! The manager's package [note: diff from intro'ed text] can be found here: bit.ly/3LjfcEx. [Final text to be posted soon].

Key provisions to highlight (1/🧵):

1) Foreign Military Financing program for Taiwan, first introduced in @SenatorRisch's #TaiwanDeterrenceAct in Nov 2021 & incorporated into TPA. It is a sliding scale that provides $6.5b in grants & $2b in loans over next 5 yrs, contingent on increases in Taiwan's defense spending

2) Regional Contingency Stockpile. Unlike Ukraine, Taiwan must ensure it has the capabilities (both in terms of defensive weapons, protective gear, & medical supplies) on-island from day 1 of a potential contingency. We cannot wait and react after the fact, we must prep now.

3) Treatment of Taiwan as a major non-NATO ally. The latest text reflects current law (based on Pub Law 107-228 from 2002), and treats Taiwan AS IF it were designated a MNNA. More info on MNNA privileges can be found here: govinfo.gov/content/pkg/US…

4) Clarifies that #UN Resolution 2758 does NOT address the representation of Taiwan at the UN, contrary to Chinese propaganda. In fact, it has always been US policy to keep Taiwan's included in int'l orgs. The #TaiwanRelationsActof1979 clearly says:

"Nothing in this Act may be construed as a basis for supporting the exclusion or expulsion of Taiwan from continued membership in any international financial institution or any other international organization.” (congress.gov/bill/96th-cong…)

5) Lastly, contrary to media reporting, this bill is NOT a reaction to Pelosi visit – it has been in the works for nearly a year (SFRC in discussions for mark-up way before visit) and these its ideas have been intro’ed in the Senate through various bills over the past few years.

This bill IS, however, due to PRC provocation/its military & econ aggression against Taiwan over past few years. China is changing the status quo in the Taiwan Strait, and the U.S. must adjust our posture accordingly to ensure we can uphold our #TaiwanRelationsAct commitments.

That's it for now, but will update this thread with the final text once it is posted publicly. As always, appreciate any thoughts/discussion!