Dhs Restrictions on Confucius Institutes and Chinese Entities of Concern Act

Floor Speech

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Mr. GOTTHEIMER. Mr. Chair, I rise in support of my amendment, which would designate Chinese universities that purposely undermine the United States' relationship with Taiwan as entities of concern under H.R. 1516. We cannot condone partnerships with academic institutions that undercut the U.S.-Taiwan relationship.

As a member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, I understand just how vital the U.S.-Taiwan relationship is for both America's and Taiwan's national security. Taiwan is a democratic firewall, a valued economic partner, and a global leader on semiconductors, one of the most critical technologies to American industry and competitiveness.

The United States Congress must stand firmly with Taiwan and resolutely against the Chinese Communist Party, which aims to delegitimize our longstanding, bipartisan relationship.

Chinese universities have played an instrumental role in the Chinese Communist Party's strategy to intimidate Taiwan and interfere in its governing.

Let me just offer one example of many examples. Earlier this year, the Center for Strategic and International Studies reported that researchers at Xiamen University suggested that Beijing develop plans for a ``shadow government'' that could take over Taipei in case of a ``reunification,'' the code word for invasion.

They are essentially writing the day-after invasion plan for the CCP. That is disgraceful and deeply disconcerting.

The United States supports a free, democratic Taiwan. American universities and research affiliates should never support or legitimize this propaganda masked behind the guise of research. We would never ever condone an American researcher working with Moscow to develop battle plans for Kyiv. Why should Taiwan be any different?

My amendment would hold American universities accountable for their collaboration with Chinese universities that delegitimize the U.S.- Taiwan relationship.

We will not stand for the schoolyard bullying tactics of the CCP, which are a threat to Taiwan's sovereignty and a challenge to America's global leadership.

I was glad to see such an overwhelming bipartisan majority of the House come together to support the Indo-Pacific security aid package in April. That bill made critical investments in our hard power and military assets. The Confucius Institutes are soft powers for China. By passing this amendment, we will help shore up the U.S.-Taiwan relationship on both fronts.

As I said earlier, Taiwan is not and should not ever be a partisan issue. I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to prioritize our national security and support this amendment.

Mr. Chair, I yield back the balance of my time.

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