US lawmakers introduce bill to formalise 'six assurances' amid rising tensions with China

ANI May 16, 2025 193 views

US lawmakers have introduced a bipartisan bill to formally codify the "six assurances" to Taiwan, reinforcing decades of US policy. The move comes as tensions with China escalate, signaling Washington's commitment to Taiwan's security. The assurances, first conveyed in 1982, include continued arms sales and no pressure on Taiwan to negotiate with Beijing. The bill aims to provide legal clarity amid growing strategic competition with China.

"Taiwan is a vibrant democracy and a critical partner to the United States, and it deserves clarity and certainty when it comes to our commitments." – Raja Krishnamoorthi
Washington, DC, May 16: As strategic tensions with China continue to escalate, US lawmakers have introduced a bipartisan bill to formally enshrine the "six assurances" to Taiwan into law, a move that sends a clear signal to Beijing regarding Washington's long-standing policy of support for Taipei, Taipei Times reported.

Key Points

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Bipartisan bill aims to enshrine Reagan-era assurances into law

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Six assurances include no halt to arms sales and no mediation between Taiwan and China

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Legislation reinforces US stance amid rising tensions with Beijing

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Bill co-sponsored by multiple lawmakers from both parties

The legislation, introduced by US Representative Raja Krishnamoorthi, seeks to codify the six principles first conveyed in 1982 by then-US President Ronald Reagan. Though reaffirmed multiple times by US administrations and Congress, the "six assurances" have never held the force of law.

"Taiwan is a vibrant democracy and a critical partner to the United States, and it deserves clarity and certainty when it comes to our commitments," Krishnamoorthi said in a news release by the House Select Committee on Strategic Competition between the United States and the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).

The original assurances were delivered privately by then-head of the American Institute in Taiwan, James Lilley, to then-Taiwanese President Chiang Ching-kuo.

However, because they were never presented as a formal government document, the exact text has never been found. In contrast to the Taiwan Relations Act, which is codified US law, the six assurances have remained an informal cornerstone of US policy toward Taiwan, reported Taipei Times.

The six assurances include: No set date for ending arms sales to Taiwan; no prior consultation with China on such sales; no mediation between Taiwan and China; no revision of the Taiwan Relations Act; no change in the US position on Taiwan's sovereignty; and no pressure on Taiwan to negotiate with Beijing.

"By codifying the six assurances, this bill sends a clear, bipartisan message: We will stand firm against coercion, support peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait, and ensure that US policy remains consistent, principled and rooted in law," Krishnamoorthi said.

The bill is co-sponsored by Representatives Gregory Meeks, Zach Nunn, Greg Stanton, Young Kim, and Nicole Malliotakis. It must pass both the House and Senate before reaching the president for approval.

The same day the bill was introduced, the committee held a hearing titled "Deterrence Amid Rising Tensions: Preventing CCP Aggression on Taiwan," featuring testimony from former military and diplomatic officials, Taipei Times reported.

"A CCP attack on Taiwan would be unacceptable for our prosperity, our security and our values," Krishnamoorthi said during the session.

Reader Comments

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Rajesh K.
This is a strong move by the US! As an Indian, I see parallels with how China behaves in our region too. They need to understand that democracies will stand together against bullying tactics. Taiwan's sovereignty matters just like ours does in Arunachal Pradesh. 🇮🇳
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Priya M.
While I support Taiwan's right to self-determination, I hope this doesn't escalate tensions further. We've seen how China reacts to such moves near our borders. The last thing Asia needs is another flashpoint when we're still dealing with the aftermath of Galwan.
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Amit S.
Interesting to see Indian-American Rep. Krishnamoorthi leading this effort. The US finally waking up to China's expansionist policies is good, but they should also support India more openly in our border disputes. One China policy is outdated - just like their claims on Taiwan and Arunachal!
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Sunita R.
China's aggression is becoming a global concern. First South China Sea, then our borders, now Taiwan. The US taking a stand is welcome, but Asian nations need to strengthen our own alliances too. Maybe time for India to be more vocal in supporting Taiwan?
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Vikram J.
The six assurances make sense, but let's not forget the US has a history of changing policies based on convenience. India should watch carefully and not rely too much on American commitments. Our foreign policy should remain independent and pragmatic.
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Neha P.
As someone who has Taiwanese friends, I fully support this move! Taiwan is a thriving democracy with its own identity. China's bullying tactics won't work forever. More countries should take such clear stands - including India. The world can't keep appeasing Beijing. ✌️

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US-Taiwan relations Six Assurances China tensions Raja Krishnamoorthi Taiwan policy bipartisan bill