Washington: A U.S. House committee on Tuesday approved a key spending bill that includes US$500 million in military assistance for Taiwan and support for its participation in international organizations. The House Appropriations Committee passed the Fiscal Year 2027 National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs Appropriations Act in a 35-27 vote. According to Focus Taiwan, the bill allocates US$47.32 billion in total funding, representing a decrease of US$2.69 billion, or about 6 percent, from fiscal 2026 levels. This reduction reflects what the committee describes as "America First" priorities. Despite the cutbacks, the legislation maintains robust support for key U.S. allies, including Israel, Jordan, Egypt, and Taiwan, while countering adversaries such as the Chinese Communist Party, Iran, Cuba, and drug trafficking organizations. Republican Representative Mario Diaz-Balart emphasized the bill's support for U.S. partners while delivering a firm message to rivals. He stated, "If you are a f riend or an ally of the United States, this bill supports you. If you are an adversary or are cozying up to our adversaries, then you will not like this bill." Diaz-Balart highlighted that the legislation allocates US$1.8 billion for Indo-Pacific partners, including US$500 million in military aid for Taiwan, as well as funding for the Philippines and Pacific island partners. The committee noted that the bill's key provisions include support for Taiwan's participation in multilateral organizations and the US$500 million assistance for Taiwan under the Foreign Military Financing (FMF) program. The FMF is a U.S. State Department program that provides grants to eligible partners to acquire U.S. defense equipment, services, and training. The bill now moves to the full House for consideration. If passed, it must also be approved by the Senate. Both chambers must approve the bill in identical form before it can be sent to the president for signing into law.
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