Tyler Reporter

WASHINGTON – Congressman Lance Gooden (R-TX) is calling on President Biden to invite Taiwan's president to attend this year's Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum on an equal footing with leaders of other APEC member states. The resolution introduced by Rep. Gooden emphasizes the importance of recognizing Taiwan's contributions to global trade and economic growth, as well as strengthening economic ties and supporting national security interests.

"Taiwan is a vibrant democracy, a defender of individual liberty, and an integral member of the Asia-Pacific community," said Rep. Gooden. "It's imperative that we, as a nation, recognize Taiwan's significant contributions to global trade and economic growth. Engaging with Taiwan in platforms like APEC not only strengthens our economic ties but supports our national security interests."

APEC was established to promote prosperity in the Asia-Pacific region through balanced, innovative, and secure growth. The annual APEC forum provides an opportunity for leaders of its 21 member nations to discuss mutual interests in economic security and commerce.

The resolution specifically highlights the importance of the upcoming APEC leaders' summit scheduled for November 2023 in San Francisco, California. This summit holds historic significance as the APEC summit has not been hosted in the continental United States since 1993.

Congressman Gooden has made previous attempts in April and September to urge the Biden administration to extend an invitation to President Tsai Ing-wen. However, both attempts were unsuccessful, leading to the introduction of this resolution.

Co-signers of the resolution include Bill Johnson (OH), Tom Tiffany (WI), George Santos (NY), Burgess Owens (UT), Rudy Yakym (IN), Andy Ogles (TN), Randy Weber (TX), Carlos Gimenez (FL), Keith Self (TX), Russell Fry (FL), Pat Fallon (TX), Ronny Jackson (TX), Maria Elvira Salazar (FL), and Andy Biggs (AZ).