TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — A bill introduced in the Senate on Wednesday opposes action intended to change Taiwan's status without the consent of the Taiwanese.

The US House of Representatives unanimously passed the Taiwan International Solidarity Act by voice vote in May, per CNA. It directs US representatives in international organizations to use Washington's “voice, vote, and influence” to advocate against any efforts by Beijing to distort Taiwan-related “decisions, language, polices, or procedures.” 

In 1971, the UN General Assembly passed Resolution 2758 recognizing the People’s Republic of China as "the only legitimate representative of China to the United Nations." Beijing has since used this to block Taiwan’s participation in UN organizations and activities by claiming Taiwan is part of China.

Since US bills require identical House and Senate versions to become law, Senators Chris Van Hollen and John Curtis introduced a Senate companion measure on Wednesday. It promotes US cooperation with allies to resist China’s efforts to isolate Taiwan diplomatically.

The bill says that Resolution 2758 only pertains to China’s representation and does not address Taiwan’s status or representation in the UN. It also notes the resolution makes no statement on Taiwan’s sovereignty or cross-strait relations..

The legislation expands the reporting requirements for the US executive branch, mandating it include information on China’s past and ongoing efforts to undermine Taiwan’s status as a member or observer in international organizations, as well as actions aimed at weakening Taiwan’s relations with other countries.

“For years, Beijing has worked to isolate Taiwan and distort history,” said Curtis. He added, “The United Nations must not become a platform for that distortion. It must stand for clarity."

He added that he is honored to work with Van Hollen to advance this bill and ensure US representatives firmly and consistently counter disinformation while defending Taiwan’s dignity and right to self-determination.

Curtis, who previously served as a missionary in Taiwan, also shared a photo on X with former National Security Advisor and UN Ambassador nominee Mike Waltz. He said they agree that the UN must be accountable to US taxpayers, promote US interests, and “be aggressive in countering the unfair treatment of our allies like Taiwan and Israel in international organizations.”