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Chairman Menendez, Senator Inhofe Applaud Passage of Bill Granting Taiwan Observer Status at International Civil Aviation Organization

Legislation introduced by U.S. Sens. Menendez and Inhofe clears the Senate

WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Robert Menendez (D-NJ), Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, and U.S. Senator James Inhofe (R-OK) applauded the passage of legislation advancing efforts for Taiwan to obtain observer status at the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Assembly.

Menendez and Inhofe are co-chairs of the Senate Taiwan Caucus.

The bill directs the Secretary of State to develop and implement a plan to obtain ICAO observer status for Taiwan.

“We in the United States have a responsibility to lead the way and help Taiwan join the International Civil Aviation Organization,” said Menendez. “Taiwan is a dynamic hub of economic growth and a trusted U.S. trading partner, but is denied an opportunity to join this important international body due to its unique political status. Taiwan last year joined the U.S. Visa Waiver Program and travel between our two nations is increasing rapidly.  Granting the Government of Taiwan observer status at ICAO assemblies will ensure that it has access to the technical information it needs to conform its civil aviation practices with evolving international safety standards. This will help guarantee the safety of travelers and airlines from America and Taiwan alike, as well as others in Asia and around the globe.”

"By allowing Taiwan to participate in the International Civil Aviation Organization, the U.S. can further ensure the safety and security of Americans traveling around the world," said Inhofe. "The swift passage of this legislation is an indication from the U.S. Senate on the important role of Taiwan in the international community. I look forward to working with the State Department to continue to expand Taiwan's status not just within the ICAO, but also with other multinational organizations that are critical to the the safety, security, and economies of countries throughout the world."

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