TAIPEI (TVBS News) — U.S. bipartisan senators introduced legislation Friday (Nov. 21) to enshrine the Six Assurances into law, preventing any administration from unilaterally altering commitments to Taiwan. Sen. Jeff Merkley emphasized these assurances as six key diplomatic commitments supporting U.S.-Taiwan relations for nearly half a century.
The bill mandates U.S. administrations notify Congress before changing arms sales to Taiwan, amending policies, or pressuring Taiwan into negotiations. Congress gains 60 days to review and potentially block such actions through joint resolution. Merkley noted the legislation ensures congressional scrutiny, preventing administrations from secretly deviating from commitments.
Sen. John Curtis, another sponsor, stated the Six Assurances from President Reagan in 1982 serve as U.S. policy cornerstone toward Taiwan. Curtis explained the bill formalizes long-standing commitments, giving them full legal effect to clarify U.S. stance and deter Beijing's pressures. The legislative process requires House and Senate passage before presidential signing.
The Six Assurances have never been institutionalized into law. The assurances ensure six commitments: no Chinese input on Taiwan military procurement, no arms sales termination date, no U.S. mediation between Taiwan and China, no sovereignty position changes, no Taiwan Relations Act revision, and no pressure on Taiwan to negotiate. ◼