MIL USHOR-2b Engine

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Bill Foster (11th District of Illinois)

Washington, DC—Today, Congressman Bill Foster (D-IL), the top Democrat on the House Financial Institutions Subcommittee, issued the following statement regarding Kevin Warsh taking over as Chair of the Federal Reserve:

“Today, Kevin Warsh takes over for Jerome Powell as Chair of the Federal Reserve. He has big shoes to fill. 

“As Chair, Jerome Powell provided a steady hand that was unaffected by political pressures from the highest office in our country. He guided the historic soft landing of our economy after the COVID-19 pandemic and has overseen our monetary policy during major economic turmoil. 

“Having served on the Federal Reserve Board of Governors during the 2008 financial crisis, Warsh has experience navigating economic turmoil and should understand the importance of effective regulation. I look forward to working with Chair Warsh to maintain a Federal Reserve free from political influence.”

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-23)

“As we mark Jewish American Heritage Month this May, we honor generations of Jewish Americans whose faith, resilience, and leadership in all facets of American life have contributed to our nation’s strength.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Ed Case (Hawai‘i – District 1)

(Washington, DC) – U.S. Representatives Ed Case (Hawai’i-01) and Jill Tokuda (Hawai’i-02) today introduced a resolution in the U.S. House to congratulate the University of Hawaii’s Rainbow Warriors for winning the National Collegiate Athletic Association’s (NCAA) men’s volleyball national championship on Monday.

“I join my Congressional delegation teammates and all throughout our country and world who call our Hawai’i home in extending my deepest congratulations and ‘chee-hoos’ to the Rainbow Warriors for winning it all and showing everyone our own home-grown version of grit and resilience in the face of adversity,” said Rep. Case.

“Wherever we are, your die-hard Rainbow Warrior fans will always have your back and will cheer you and your fellow ‘Bows on each and every year because you are truly ‘Our Team, Hawaii’s Team’.”

“By bringing home another NCAA Championship, the UH Men’s Volleyball team has further established itself as a powerhouse program, and once again brought immense pride to our entire state because when the Bows win, all of Hawaiʻi wins,” said Rep. Tokuda. “Congratulations to all the players, Coach Wade, and the dedicated staff for showing the nation what Hawaiʻi’s student-athletes can achieve through hard work, perseverance, and true teamwork. You’ve made us all proud to be part of the Rainbow Warrior ‘ohana.”

A companion resolution has been introduced in the Senate by U.S. Senators Brian Schatz and Mazie Hirono. 

House resolution is here.

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman French Hill (AR-02)

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, co-chairs of the Bipartisan HBCU Caucus Rep. French Hill (R-AR) and Rep. Alma Adams (D-NC) introduced H.R. 8791, the IGNITE HBCU Excellence Act, following years of bipartisan work to strengthen historically Black colleges and universities. The legislation is co-led by HBCU Caucus Vice Chairs Rep. Mike Turner (R-OH) and Rep. Terri A. Sewell (D-AL), and Caucus Members Rep. Rich McCormick (R-GA) and Rep. Shomari C. Figures (D-AL).

This bipartisan, bicameral legislation, IGNITE (I nstitutional Grants for New Infrastructure, Technology, and Education) Act, would direct the Department of Education to award competitive grants to historically Black colleges and universities for the renovation, repair, and construction of campus facilities, including classrooms, research labs, student housing, and broadband infrastructure, while expanding research capacity, developing workforce skills, building entrepreneurial capacity, and advancing AI education for generations to come.

The companion Senate legislation is led by HBCU Caucus co-chairs Sen. Tim Scott (R-SC) and Sen. Chris Coons (D-DE).

Read the IGNITE HBCU Excellence Act one-pager.

You can watch the full press conference HERE.

Rep. French Hill (R-AR) and Rep. Alma Adams (D-NC), co-chairs of the Bipartisan HBCU Caucus, alongside HBCU presidents, at the press conference announcing the introduction of the IGNITE HBCU Excellence Act on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., Thursday, May 14, 2026.  You can watch the full press conference HERE.

Congressman French Hill said, “Central Arkansas is home to four outstanding HBCUs, and I have seen firsthand the difference these institutions make for their students and communities. I have also seen how the lack of long-term investment and aging infrastructure limits what these institutions are able to offer their students. The IGNITE HBCU Excellence Act is a meaningful step toward addressing that. It would help ensure our HBCUs have the facilities and infrastructure to match the excellence of the students they serve. This is the kind of investment that will pay dividends for generations, and I am proud to partner with Congresswoman Adams and our Senate colleagues to get it done.”

“For generations, HBCUs have educated students who went on to lead in every corner of our country, often while operating with far fewer resources than their peer institutions,” said Congresswoman Alma S. Adams, Ph.D., Founder and Co-Chair of the Bipartisan HBCU Caucus and a senior member of the Congressional Black Caucus. “The IGNITE HBCU Excellence Act is about making sure these institutions have the facilities and infrastructure needed to continue serving students and competing in today’s higher education landscape. From academic buildings and research labs to student housing and technology infrastructure, this bill makes long-term investments that will strengthen our campuses, support workforce development, and expand opportunity for future generations. I am proud to continue this bipartisan work through the HBCU Caucus alongside Congressman French Hill and our Senate partners.”

“HBCUs have long been engines of opportunity, but for far too long, too many have been asked to do more with less. The IGNITE HBCU Excellence Act will help modernize campuses, expand research and workforce training opportunities, and ensure students are prepared to succeed in a 21st-century economy,” said Senator Tim Scott, co-chair of the Bipartisan HBCU Caucus. “I’m proud to partner with Senator Coons on this legislation to strengthen HBCUs in South Carolina and across the country for generations to come.”

“Historically Black Colleges and Universities like Delaware State University have long been institutions that create opportunity and academic excellence for future generations of community leaders, innovators, educators, and freedom fighters,” said Senator Chris Coons, co-chair of the Bipartisan HBCU Caucus. “Funding for HBCUs is critical to providing educational resources for low-income students, first-generation college students, and those most at risk of not entering college. Congress needs to take up and pass the IGNITE HBCU Excellence Act to modernize campuses across the country so that HBCUs have the technology, facilities, and resources they need to educate the next generation.” 

Congressman Mike Turner (R-OH) said, “Historically Black Colleges and Universities, including Central State University and Wilberforce University, both here in Ohio’s 10th congressional district, have opened doors of opportunity for generations of students and helped prepare the workforce that strengthens our economy, our research enterprise, and our national competitiveness. The IGNITE HBCU Excellence Act is a bipartisan effort to strengthen HBCUs, expand opportunity, and ensure students have the learning environments they need to succeed.”

Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell (D-AL) said, “As Vice Chair of the Congressional HBCU Caucus, I am proud to support the IGNITE HBCU Excellence Act. Alabama is home to some of the finest Historically Black Colleges and Universities in the nation, institutions that have shaped generations of leaders, innovators, educators, and changemakers. Despite their extraordinary impact, our HBCUs have endured decades of systemic underfunding. This bill represents a transformational investment in the future of HBCUs by modernizing campus facilities, expanding access to technology, preserving historic buildings, and ensuring students have access to the world-class learning environments they deserve.”

Congressman Rich McCormick (R-GA) said, “This legislation is an important step in assuring that students at our Historically Black Colleges and Universities have access to the best and most modern facilities possible. I am proud to support this commonsense legislation, which will help HBCUs across Georgia make critical investments in their students and cover much-needed maintenance costs.”

Congresswoman Shomari C. Figures (D-AL) said, “Despite being historically underfunded and facing severe infrastructure needs, HBCUs have contributed significantly to our nation’s workforce and success. This bipartisan, commonsense legislation helps get HBCUs the investments they need to update their facilities and to thrive, and will be especially impactful in Alabama, which has the most HBCUs in the country.”

What Others Are Saying about the IGNITE HBCU Excellence Act

“Historically Black Colleges and Universities have a longstanding legacy of preparing students for lives of leadership, service, and impact across every sector of our society. The IGNITE our HBCU Excellence Act reflects an important recognition of the value these institutions bring to our nation’s educational landscape and workforce development efforts. At Philander Smith University, we believe investments that strengthen student success, institutional capacity, and innovation create lasting benefits not only for HBCUs, but for the communities and industries we serve. We are encouraged by efforts that support excellence and expand opportunity for current and future generations of students.”
— Dr. Maurice D. Gipson, President, Philander Smith University

“The IGNITE HBCU Excellence Act represents a critical investment in the future of historically Black colleges and universities and the students and communities we serve. Strengthening research capacity and modernizing infrastructure at HBCUs is essential to advancing workforce development, innovation, economic mobility, and the long-term competitiveness of our nation. We are grateful to Congressman Hill, Congresswoman Adams, and the bipartisan HBCU Caucus for their leadership and continued commitment to expanding opportunities for HBCUs across the country.” Chancellor Graham
— Dr. Anthony Graham, Chancellor, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff

“For Shorter College, this moment is both timely and consequential. We serve students whose aspirations are often greater than the resources available to them, students seeking access, advancement, and in many cases, a second chance. That is why the IGNITE HBCU Excellence Act matters. It recognizes that HBCUs must have the infrastructure, technology, and institutional capacity to meet the needs of today’s students and prepare them for the demands of tomorrow’s workforce. For Shorter College, this investment would strengthen our ability to modernize learning environments, expand workforce-aligned programs, and create meaningful pathways for students who are determined to build a different future. As a private, two-year HBCU, Shorter College opens doors where barriers have too often existed. We are grateful to Congressman Hill, Congresswoman Adams, and the HBCU Caucus for advancing legislation that understands a fundamental truth: when HBCUs are strengthened, communities are strengthened, families are strengthened, and possibilities are expanded for generations to come.”
— Dr Jeffery Norfleet, President, Shorter College

“Long before French Hill was elected to Congress, he was a huge supporter of HBCUs in Arkansas. Consequently, the IGNITE HBCU Excellence Act, a bipartisan legislation aimed at providing federal funding for infrastructure, technology, and facility modernization, is a game-changer to empower both students and the communities where our institutions reside. We are grateful for the support of Representatives Hill and Adams…they are committed to the sustainability of HBCUs, which are also educating the leaders for our country.”
— Bill Walker, President, Arkansas Baptist College

“The IGNITE HBCU Excellence Act will help transform our institutions. In order for our nation to reach its full potential, we must strategically invest in and support every postsecondary student population to ensure that our country has the robust workforce capable of meeting tomorrow’s challenges. By passing the IGNITE HBCU Excellence Act, Congress is making an affirmative statement that investing in HBCUs and their students is a smart strategic investment to enhance our nation’s global competitiveness. We thank Rep. Hill, Rep Adams, Sen. Scott and Sen. Coons of the bipartisan HBCU Caucus for bringing this smart piece of legislation forward and we urge Congress to pass the IGNITE HBCU Excellence Act this year.”
— Dr. Harry L. Williams, President & CEO, Thurgood Marshall College Fund

“The IGNITE HBCU Excellence Act has the potential to be a transformative investment in HBCUs and the students who depend on them. For generations, HBCUs have nurtured extraordinary talent, yet they have long struggled with unequal access to funding and modern infrastructure. This legislation could reverse those adverse circumstances by providing targeted resources that strengthen both research excellence and campus infrastructure, ensuring HBCUs have the tools to lead in a rapidly changing world.

“The IGNITE HBCU Excellence Act will empower HBCUs by strengthening them financially. We—at UNCF—view strengthening HBCUs both from the financial and infrastructure perspectives as the maximum impact Congress can have on the institutions at this time.  When HBCUs thrive, the entire nation benefits. These institutions have long been engines of social mobility and economic growth in our communities. By passing the IGNITE HBCU Excellence Act, Congress will ensure that HBCUs have the capacity to continue shaping leaders, advancing innovation, and serving as vital pillars of our national progress.  We urge Congress to act without delay, pass the IGNITE HBCU Excellence Act, and make these vital investments in America’s future.”
— Dr. Michael L. Lomax, President and CEO, UNCF

“Entergy applauds Representatives Hill and Adams for reintroducing the IGNITE for HBCU Excellence Act. This important piece of legislation encourages public-private partnerships that will strengthen HBCUs in Arkansas, across the Gulf South region, and nationwide. It would also expand access to capital for campus infrastructure improvements and help build needed STEM and AI talent pipelines. This bill will be an essential tool to help Entergy and other businesses develop our workforce of the future.”
— John Hudson, Entergy Chief External Affairs Officer and President, Entergy Charitable Foundation

 

Goldman Sachs, Entergy, Century Foundation, Capital One, HomeFree-Usa, Farm Credit Council, Vanguard, LendingTree, TIAA, American Honda Motor Company, Center for Community Self-Help, and the International Franchise Association (IFA) have endorsed the bill. 

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Brett Guthrie (2nd District Kentucky)

Washington, D.C. – This week, Congressman Guthrie took action to celebrate National Police Week, voting in favor of several bills supporting law enforcement and cracking down on crime in American communities. Additionally, Congressman Guthrie entered a statement into the Congressional Record highlighting the important work that Kentucky law enforcement does to keep the Commonwealth safe. 

“Across the Commonwealth and our nation, police officers put on their uniforms each day knowing they may face danger and spend long hours away from their loved ones, all in an answer to a call of duty to protect and serve their community,” said Congressman Guthrie. “In honor of National Police Week, I was proud to vote in favor of legislation that supports the men and women who wear the badge and keep our communities safe. To every law enforcement officer serving today, thank you. America is stronger and safer because of your dedication and commitment.” 

Background: 
This week, the House voted on seven pieces of legislation that support law enforcement officers and hold criminals accountable. This includes:
H. Con. Res. 96 – Expressing support for law enforcement officers.
H. Res. 1252 – This resolution honors the 363 law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty during 2025. Congressman Guthrie was a cosponsor of this legislation.
H.R. 2853, Combating Organized Retail Crime Act – This legislation would establish a Center to Combat Organized Retail and Supply Chain Crime within the Department of Homeland Security to provide additional collaboration between federal and state law enforcement, as well as the retail industry, to enhance the ability to investigate and prosecute retail crimes. 
H.R. 2267, the NICS Data Reporting Act – This bill would require the Department of Justice to annually report to Congress about the denials of firearm purchases within the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS).
H.R. 8352, the Criminal History Access Act – This legislation would permit state agencies to access federal criminal databases in order to properly vet applicants for law enforcement positions.
Additionally, on May 11, 2026, Congressman Guthrie entered a statement into the Congressional Record honoring the brave men and women of Kentucky’s law enforcement. The full text of Congressman Guthrie’s entry can be read below. You can view the entry here. 

HONORING THE DEDICATION OF LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS ON POLICE WEEK
HON. BRETT GUTHRIE
OF KENTUCKY
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
May 11th, 2026

I rise today to celebrate National Police Week and honor the brave men and women who wear the badge. 

Across the Commonwealth and our nation, police officers put on their uniforms each day knowing they may face danger and spend long hours away from their loved ones, all in an answer to a call of duty to protect and serve their community. 

To everyone who has volunteered to serve in law enforcement, thank you. 

Over the past 15 months, Congress has taken action to back the blue. Last year, I was proud to see the Chief Herbert D. Proffitt Act signed into law to honor former Tompkinsville and Monroe County Police Chief Herbert D. Proffitt, who was killed in 2012 by a suspect whom he had arrested years earlier. This legislation allows retired officers and their families to be eligible for benefits if they suffer permanent disability or death in an event related to their service.
 
I have also supported the Thin Blue Line Act, which would strengthen penalties for criminals who target law enforcement officers, and the Protect and Serve Act which strengthens federal criminal penalties for knowingly assaulting a law enforcement officer.

Law enforcement officers are a core part of our communities; they are our neighbors, coaches, community leaders, and so much more. They serve on the front lines to protect our families and keep our communities safe.

This week we especially remember the officers who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. Their service will never be forgotten, and we owe their families a debt of gratitude that can never fully be repaid.

To every law enforcement officer serving today, thank you. America is stronger and safer because of your dedication and commitment.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Joaquin Castro (20th District of Texas)

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Joaquin Castro (20th District of Texas)

May 14, 2026

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Joaquin Castro, (D-TX-20), Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on the Western Hemisphere and Congressman Rudy Yakym (R-IN-02) launched the bipartisan U.S.-Mexico Caucus. They will lead as co-chairs of the Caucus in the U.S. House of Representatives, which will focus on strengthening the relationship between the U.S. and Mexico and facilitating a dialogue on trade, security and culture.

(Left to right: Caucus Co-Chair Rep. Castro (TX-20), Caucus Co-Chair Rep. Yakym (IN-02), and Members of Congress and leaders from the American Mexican Leadership Council.)

“I am thrilled to announce the official launch of the U.S.-Mexico Caucus to strengthen the relationship between the United States and Mexico. Our shared border, history and interests—particularly in trade, migration, and security—make the creation of this caucus relevant now more than ever. I am looking forward to working with Congressman Yakym and my colleagues to continue building a bipartisan and collaborative U.S.-Mexico relationship and strengthening our bilateral policy approach,” said Rep. Castro.

“I’m proud to co-chair the U.S.-Mexico Congressional Caucus and help foster strong relations between our two countries. The U.S.-Mexico relationship is important for our shared economic security and national security. Hoosier manufacturers and farmers rely on Mexico for inputs and exports, while our communities count on a strong security relationship to keep fentanyl and other deadly drugs off the streets. I look forward to this caucus serving as a forum to deepen that relationship.” Rep. Yakym said.

“America’s security and economic future are deeply connected to our relationship with Mexico,” said Rep. Salazar, Chairwoman, House Foreign Affairs Western Hemisphere Subcommittee. “From immigration to trade to energy security and the fight against the cartels, these challenges demand serious cooperation and strong leadership. I’m proud to join the bipartisan US-Mexico Caucus to deepen this alliance, strengthen America’s position in the region, and help build a safer, stronger, and more prosperous hemisphere.”

“This is a critical moment in U.S.-Mexico relations. Our two nations have so much to gain by drawing closer together — especially with the USMCA review on the horizon. I look forward to working with my colleagues in this caucus to strengthen our partnership with our Mexican counterparts on trade, security, and the deep people-to-people ties that bind our communities together,” said Rep. Stanton.

“Mexico and the United States are connected not only by our southern border, but also by mutual security challenges and shared economic interests. As the chair of the U.S.-Mexico Interparliamentary Group who recently led a delegation to Mexico, I’m very proud to join this caucus to ensure Congress continues to prioritize our bilateral relationship. Strengthening areas of collaboration — from agriculture to immigration to counter-narcotic efforts — will no doubt benefit both our nations and the broader region,” said Rep. McCaul.

“As Co-Chair of the U.S.-Mexico Interparliamentary Group, I know how important the U.S.-Mexico relationship remains for Laredo and communities across South Texas. Our economy, trade corridors, and daily way of life depend on strong coordination between both countries. Both nations need to continue working together to address security challenges, water issues, and strengthen military coordination along the border. This caucus will help bring leaders to the table, improve communication, and support the businesses, workers, and families who rely on a strong U.S.-Mexico partnership every day. I would like to thank Co-Chairs Congressman Castro and Congressman Yakym for leading this initiative,” said Rep. Cuellar.

“This is about creating opportunity, prosperity and economic security for communities across the United States. So many of the sectors that drive our economy, from agriculture to finance, innovation and trade depend on a successful relationship with Mexico. America’s strength and competitiveness in the world are deeply connected to the success of this partnership,” said Sergio Gonzales, Founding President & CEO of the AMLC.

“The launch of this bipartisan caucus sends a strong message: the U.S.-Mexico relationship transcends politics. It is about maintaining economic strength, striving towards shared security, and the millions of people whose lives are shaped by this partnership,” said Ambassador Nathalie Rayes, founder and co-chair of the American Mexican Leadership Council.

Inaugural members of the U.S.-Mexico Caucus include:

Rep. Joaquin Castro (D-TX-20)

Rep. Rudy Yakym (R-IN-02)

Rep. Pete Aguilar (D-CA-33)

Rep. María Salazar (R-FL-27)

Rep. Adriano Espaillat (D-NY-13)

Rep. Juan Ciscomani (R-AZ-06)

Rep. Greg Stanton (D-AZ-04)

Rep. Michael McCaul (R-TX-10)

Rep. Veronica Escobar (D-TX-16)

Rep. Don Bacon (R-NE-02)

Rep. Henry Cuellar (D-TX-28)

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Thomas Massie (4th District of Kentucky)

Rep. Massie Introduces the “Americans Insist on Political Agent Clarity Act” to Require All Foreign Lobbyists to Register Under FARA

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Aumua Amata (Western Samoa)

Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata is recognizing May as Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, honoring the history, cultures, and contributions of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders throughout the United States.

“For American Samoa and Pacific Islanders across the country, AAPI Heritage Month is a meaningful time to celebrate our people, our traditions, and the values that continue to shape our communities,” said Congresswoman Amata. “It’s also an opportunity to recognize the generations of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders whose hard work, service, and leadership have helped strengthen our Nation.”

AAPI Heritage Month began as a week-long observance established by Congress in 1978 and was expanded into a month-long celebration in 1992. May was selected to recognize the arrival of the first Japanese immigrants to the United States on May 7, 1843, and the completion of the transcontinental railroad on May 10, 1869, built in large part through the labor of Chinese immigrants.

Congresswoman Amata also recognized the ongoing contributions of AAPI communities in public service, education, healthcare, business, the military, and local communities across the country.

“Pacific Islanders have a long tradition of service, faith, and strong family values,” Amata said. “This month is a chance to reflect on that legacy and celebrate the many cultures and stories that continue to be part of the American story.”

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Judy Chu (CA2-27)

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Judy Chu (D-Calif.), Chair Emerita of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus, Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee Ranking Member Linda T. Sánchez (D-Calif.), Trade Subcommittee Chairman Adrian Smith (R-Neb.), and 23 colleagues called on World Trade Organization Director-General Okonjo-Iweala to ensure that Taiwan’s effective exclusion from the 14th WTO Ministerial Conference in Cameroon will not set a precedent for future Ministerial Conferences.

Taiwan was effectively forced to choose between participating under the designation “Taiwan, Province of China” on official visas or sitting out entirely. The issue wasn’t resolved even after WTO Members, including the United States, raised serious concerns about undue pressure from China. It marks the first time Taiwan has been excluded from a Ministerial Conference since joining the WTO in 2002.

“It is an improper infringement of Taiwan’s right as a full WTO Member to force its delegates to choose between entering Cameroon for the Ministerial Conference on visas using the nomenclature “Taiwan, Province of China”— which implies that Taiwan is not a WTO Member in its own right — or missing the Ministerial Conference altogether,” the members wrote.

In addition to Representatives Chu, Sánchez, and Smith, the letter was signed by Representatives Ami Bera (D-Calif.), Donald Beyer (D-Va.), Gus Bilirakis (R-Fla.), Brendan Boyle (D-Pa.), Danny Davis (D-Ill.), Suzan DelBene (D-Wash.), Jimmy Gomez (D-Calif.), Steven Horsford (D-Nev.), Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-Ill.), John Larson (D-Conn.), Michael Lawler (R-N.Y.), Ted Lieu (D-Calif.), Carol Miller (R-W.Va.), Dave Min (D-Calif.), Gwen Moore (D-Wis.), Nathaniel Moran (R-Texas), Jimmy Panetta (D-Calif.), Bradley Schneider (D-Ill.), Terri Sewell (D-Ala.), Brad Sherman (D-Calif.), Thomas Suozzi (D-N.Y.), Claudia Tenney (R-N.Y.) and Rudy Yakym (R-Ind.).

Full text of the bipartisan letter is available HERE and follows:

May 14, 2026

Director-General Okonjo-Iweala 
World Trade Organization
Centre William Rappard
Rue de Lausanne 154
1211 Geneva 2
Switzerland               

Dear Director-General Okonjo-Iweala:

We write to express our serious concern regarding Taiwan’s effective exclusion from the 14th Ministerial Conference in Cameroon.

Taiwan acceded to the WTO as its 144th Member in 2002 as “The Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu” (or “Chinese Taipei”). Since that time, other WTO Members and the WTO Secretariat have respected Taiwan’s status as a “Separate Customs Territory” with the same status as all other economies that have joined the WTO. This includes full and equal participation of its delegation at Ministerial Conferences. It is an improper infringement of Taiwan’s right as a full WTO Member to force its delegates to choose between entering Cameroon for the Ministerial Conference on visas using the nomenclature “Taiwan, Province of China”— which implies that Taiwan is not a WTO Member in its own right — or missing the Ministerial Conference altogether.

In light of this, we urge you to answer the following questions:

1. How will the WTO Secretariat ensure that this incident does not set a precedent for future Ministerial Conferences?
2. Is the WTO Secretariat putting in place written guidelines to provide assurances that similar incidents undermining the rights of Members will not occur at future Ministerial Conferences?
    

We look forward to receiving your response by June 3, 2026, and welcome an opportunity to discuss this issue in more detail.  We thank you for your efforts to lead the WTO through these consequential times and for your willingness to engage directly with the U.S. Congress on a range of important issues.  

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