Taipei [Taiwan]: The United States House of Representatives has overwhelmingly approved new legislation aimed at deterring China from escalating pressure on Taiwan, demonstrating rare bipartisan consensus on addressing Beijing’s actions, The Taipei Times reported.
The proposed legislation, titled the PROTECT Taiwan Act, was introduced by Republican lawmaker Frank Lucas and passed with strong support — 395 votes in favour and only two against. The bill urges the US administration, where possible, to push for China’s exclusion from major international financial institutions if its actions undermine Taiwan’s security, economy, or democratic way of life.
According to The Taipei Times, the institutions referenced in the proposal include the G20, the Bank for International Settlements, and the Financial Stability Board. Lucas said the objective is to send a clear signal that any aggression against Taiwan would result in significant economic and diplomatic consequences. Drawing parallels with the global response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, he argued that violations of established international norms must be met with firm action.
Lucas also stressed the need for Washington to adopt a stronger stance in light of China’s assertiveness in the South China Sea. He suggested that, in the event of a military move against Taiwan, the response should include sanctions and coordinated efforts to limit Beijing’s role in multilateral financial bodies.
Republican Representative French Hill cited the Taiwan Relations Act, noting that it opposes the use of force or coercion to determine Taiwan’s future. He said the new bill would reinforce the principle that any invasion attempt would carry serious diplomatic and financial repercussions. Democrat Greg Stanton supported the measure, stating that nations threatening their neighbours should not continue benefiting from global economic systems.
The bill must still be approved by the US Senate and signed by the President before it can become law, The Taipei Times reported.
