TAIPEI (Taiwan News) – The United States House of Representatives approved a bill Friday (June 28) including at least US$500 million (NT$16.25 billion) worth of military aid for Taiwan.

The Senate still needed to vote its own version of the bill, per CNA. Once both versions are approved, a joint text will have to be drawn up for President Joe Biden to sign into law.

The appropriations bill for fiscal year 2025 mentioned foreign military financing allowing Taiwan to procure U.S. defense materials, services, and training. In addition to the US$500 million, the bill also stipulated up to US$2 billion in loans and loan guarantees to help Taiwan strengthen its military deterrence.

Experts saw the passage of the bill as helpful in providing Taiwan with military supplies, ammunition, and parts to upgrade its military resilience. The approval also reflected a consensus in U.S. politics about the necessity of assisting Taiwan against China’s aggressive posture.

The U.S. House wanted to show that despite conflicts raging in Europe and the Middle East, it would not reduce its willingness to safeguard peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific, analysts said.