Purpose of the Bill

The purpose of this resolution is to reaffirm the Minnesota House of Representatives' commitment to strengthening and deepening the sister-state relationship between Minnesota and Taiwan.

Main Provisions

• Sister-State Relationship: The resolution highlights the long-standing partnership established in 1984 between Minnesota and Taiwan, which includes strong bilateral trade, educational, cultural exchanges, and tourism.

• Shared Values: Taiwan shares core values with Minnesota and the United States, such as democracy, human rights, and the rule of law.

• Bilateral Trade: The document underscores the significant trade relationship, with Taiwan being a major importer of U.S. agricultural products and an important export market for Minnesota goods, particularly in medical and electronic equipment and machinery for the semiconductor industry.

• Economic and Trade Agreements: It supports ongoing efforts to negotiate trade agreements between Taiwan and the United States, such as the Bilateral Trade Agreement and the Avoidance of Double Taxation Agreement, aiming to enhance trade relations and economic cooperation.

• Taiwan Relations Act: The resolution reaffirms support for this act, emphasizing that Minnesota businesses can refer to Taiwan directly in their interactions.

• Participation in International Organizations: The resolution expresses support for Taiwan's meaningful participation in international bodies like the UN, WHO, and INTERPOL, which impact global health and safety.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• There are no significant changes to existing law stated in the resolution. The focus is on reaffirming commitments and supporting ongoing diplomatic and economic efforts.

Relevant Terms

Taiwan, sister-state, bilateral trade, Taiwan Relations Act, farm products, trade agreement, Indo-Pacific Economic Framework, democracy, international organizations, UN, WHO, INTERPOL.