Iowa House adopts resolution reaffirming ties with Taiwan; Taiwan cultural official addresses chamber

The Iowa House on the floor approved House Resolution 108, reaffirming the state's commitment to strengthen economic and people-to-people ties with Taiwan.

Representative Shipley introduced the measure and moved its adoption; the presiding officer called for the voice vote and "the ayes do have it," recording the resolution as approved. The resolution notes past memoranda of understanding, and cites recent trade figures and cooperative initiatives between Iowa and Taiwan.

Dennis Le, director general of the Taiwan Cultural Center, addressed the chamber after the resolution's approval, thanking legislators and pointing to expanding economic links. "We promise we are going to invest, 200 and 1,000,000,000 US dollars in The United States," Le said, describing planned Taiwanese investment and credit guarantees to support firms moving business to the U.S. He also referenced recent bilateral memoranda and the establishment of a Taiwanese trade representative to Iowa.

Le outlined areas of cooperation he said Taiwan and Iowa will pursue, including supply-chain security, digital infrastructure and AI collaboration, critical minerals, workforce development and cultural exchange programs. He framed the relationship as mutually beneficial for farmers and manufacturers, citing the role of agricultural exports in the bilateral partnership.

The resolution instructs continued support for Taiwan's international participation and condemns efforts that would undermine Taiwan's sovereign status. Representative Shipley and members present applauded the remarks and welcomed Dennis Le to the chamber.