James March-April 2024 online - Flipbook - Page 78
PK There is a “Taiwan Caucus” in the
Georgia General Assembly. What is its
purpose? What can members of the
General Assembly do to strengthen the
US-Taiwan relations?
EW Established in 2021, the “Southeastern State Legislative Taiwan Caucus”
(SESTC) is a friendship group comprising over 300 members across six
Southeastern states. Georgia boasts
more than 70 members from both aisles
in this caucus. The primary objective
of SESTC is to strengthen cooperation
between these States and Taiwan,
demonstrating unwavering support for
the US-Taiwan friendship.
Our office maintains a close relationship with the SESTC, actively participating in numerous talks and meetings to foster mutual understanding
and facilitate business opportunities.
Recognizing the interconnectedness of
global and local dynamics, the SESTC
plays a crucial role in strengthening ties
between the region and Taiwan. Members of the General Assembly in Georgia
contribute to this mission by passing Taiwan-friendly resolutions that
support cooperation in various sectors,
78
JAMES
M ARCH/ A PR I L 2024
such as business, language education,
cultural exchange, and tourism.
PK Under China’s continued threat,
Taiwan held its presidential election in
January, and the ruling party secured a
third term for the first time in the history of Taiwan’s democracy. What are the
implications of this election?
EW Taiwan’s historic presidential
election, securing a third term for the
ruling Democratic Progressive Party, carries broad implications. First,
Taiwan’s democratic system stands
strong. Faced with China’s persistent
gray zone attacks before and after the
election . . . Taiwan’s resilience and the
success of its election process showcase its determination to defend its
democratic values. Second, the election shows Taiwan’s commitment to
regional peace and stability given the
geopolitical significance of Taiwan’s
strategic position.
The election further underscores
Taiwan’s shared democratic values
with the U.S. and Georgia and the
strengthening of economic relations.
Taiwan stands as the U.S.’s 9th-largest
trading partner, facilitating a substantial $160 billion trade in 2022 and
marking the first agreement under
the Taiwan-U.S. Initiative on 21st Century trade. In Georgia, Taiwan remains
the state’s 16th-largest export market
and the 12th import destination, engaging in various trade sectors such as
aircraft, circuits, gas turbines, medical
instruments, and poultry.
Culturally and socially, the election
outcome also reinforces the strong
connections between both sides. For
example, sister city agreements between
five Georgia cities and Taiwanese counterparts facilitate people exchanges and
cultural interactions. The local Taiwanese community in Georgia actively
organizes cultural events, promoting
cross-cultural celebrations and understanding, further demonstrating the
importance of our collaboration.
With all of this in consideration,
as we approach the 45th anniversary
of the Taiwan Relations Act, I want to
make it clear that Taiwan will continue to work hand in hand with the
US and democratic partners around
the world to safeguard the values of
democracy and freedom. •
