April 23, 2018
No.079
Minister of Foreign Affairs Joseph Wu conferred the Grand Medal of Diplomacy upon Heritage Foundation founder Dr. Edwin J. Feulner today, April 23, 2018, to thank Dr. Feulner for his longtime efforts and contributions to promote ties between Taiwan and the US.
Dr. Feulner has been a staunch supporter of Taiwan’s democracy, freedom, and prosperity. He stands behind the signing of a free-trade agreement between Taiwan and the US, and supports regular arms sales to Taiwan. Dr. Feulner was instrumental in the passage of the Taiwan Relations Act in 1979 and has worked with six presidents—from Ronald Reagan through Donald Trump—to upgrade the bilateral security and economic relationship. Since establishing the Heritage Foundation in 1973, Dr. Feulner has worked through the Foundation to strengthen Taiwan-US ties, by putting forth policy proposals favorable to Taiwan to the US government, and by speaking up for Taiwan among policymakers and think tanks. His efforts have greatly contributed to the strengthening of Taiwan-US ties.
Dr. Feulner is highlyregarded in Washington, D.C., and is an opinion leader respected among all circles in the United States. He served as an advisor to the transition team of President-elect Donald Trump, and meets regularly with members of President Trump’s national security team. He has visited Taiwan many times and worked to promote Taiwan-US ties through exchanging opinions with key Taiwan officials. (E)