The resolution highlights the strong bilateral relationship between the United States and Taiwan, emphasizing their shared values and the significant trade partnership that exists between the two nations. The United States is Taiwan's second-largest trading partner, with trade in goods totaling an estimated $135.5 billion. Taiwan is also a major consumer of U.S. agricultural products. The resolution suggests that a bilateral trade agreement (BTA) with Taiwan could further boost exports from Rhode Island to Taiwan and create more jobs in Rhode Island. It also notes the growth in Rhode Island-Taiwan trade, with Rhode Island's exports to Taiwan increasing by 37.5 percent in 2022, making Taiwan the 13th-largest export market for Rhode Island.
The resolution proposes actions to strengthen the economic and educational ties between Rhode Island and Taiwan, including the consideration of opening a Rhode Island trade office in Taiwan and establishing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for educational exchanges. It also advocates for Taiwan's inclusion in international organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO), INTERPOL, and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), as well as the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), citing Taiwan's strategic position and the benefits to global interests and safety. The resolution calls on the Rhode Island State Government to support these initiatives and directs the Secretary of State to send certified copies of the resolution to various officials, including President Joe Biden and Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-wen.