House Joint Resolution No. 173 is a resolution commemorating the twenty-fifth anniversary of the sister-state relationship between Connecticut and Taiwan. The resolution highlights the long-standing friendship and fruitful relationship between the two, which includes cultural, educational, and economic exchanges since 1999. It acknowledges the significant trade between Connecticut and Taiwan, with Connecticut exporting $238 million worth of products to Taiwan in 2022. The resolution also references the shared democratic values and economic principles between Taiwan and the United States, the importance of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait, and the mutual benefits of educational exchanges, including the teaching of Mandarin, which is considered critical for U.S. national security.

The resolution further notes the benefits of Taiwan's inclusion in the U.S. Visa Waiver Program and Global Entry, the support for Taiwan's participation in international organizations, and the strong bilateral trade ties, with Taiwan being the ninth largest trading partner of the U.S. in 2022. It mentions Taiwan's desire to sign a Bilateral Trade Agreement and an Avoidance of Double Taxation Agreement with the U.S., as well as its interest in joining the U.S.-led Indo-Pacific Economic Framework. The resolution congratulates Taiwan on its recent presidential election and expresses the Connecticut General Assembly's support for a closer partnership with Taiwan in various sectors. The resolution has no fiscal impact on the state or municipalities and is to be sent to the President of Taiwan through the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in New York.