By Stacy Hsu / Staff reporterOne of the main proponents of the US’ recently enacted Taiwan Travel Act yesterday vowed to continue efforts to strengthen Taiwan-US relations as he became the first US lawmaker to receive an honorary medal for diplomacy from the Legislative Yuan for his long-term dedication to promoting bilateral ties. Praising Royce as the “strongest facilitator and defender” of Taiwan-US relations, Su said the US lawmaker has pushed his congressional colleagues and the US executive branch to engage in bilateral exchanges and pass Taiwan-friendly legislation. “[Such efforts] can be evidenced by the Taiwan Travel Act enacted recently, which has met with admiration from the people of Taiwan, as well as members of our legislature,” Su said. Royce is one of the sponsors of the Taiwan Travel Act, which encourages high-level visits by Taiwanese and US officials. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Royce is the first US lawmaker to receive the medal, which has been granted to individuals who help the legislature maintain relationships with lawmakers worldwide.

Source: Taipei Times March 27, 2018 15:56 UTC