The parliament in Taiwan has voted to approve same-sex marriage.
It has become the first in Asia to do so.
Two years ago, the country's constitutional court gave lawmakers until this year to change the country's marriage rules to allow same-sex marriage.
With a deadline of May 24th looming, the necessary legislation was passed today by the country's Legislative Yuan.
BBC reports that three bills to legalise same-sex marriage were debated, but the government's option - considered the most progressive - was ultimately passed.
More conservative proposals had referred to "same-sex family relationships" or "same-sex unions" rather than marriages.
The new marriage equality law will come into effect in a week's time.
Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-wen hailed the vote as a "big step towards true equality".
On May 17th, 2019 in #Taiwan, #LoveWon. We took a big step towards true equality, and made Taiwan a better country. 🏳️🌈
— 蔡英文 Tsai Ing-wen (@iingwen) May 17, 2019
Speaking ahead of the vote, she said the vote was a chance for the country to make history "and show the world that "progressive values can take root in an East Asian society".
The parliamentary decision comes despite referendum results last year rejecting a proposal on same-sex marriage rights.
67% of voters opposed the measure, illustrating divisions within Taiwan over the issue.
However, the country also has a strong LGBT community - with the annual Pride parade the largest of its type in East Asia.
Marriage equality campaigners have warmly welcomed parliament's decision.
There were emotional scenes outside the Legislative Yuan in Taipei, with many supporters cheering as the result of the vote was announced.
