110 HCON 278 EH: Supporting Taiwan’s fourth direct and U.S. House of Representatives 0 text/xml EN Pursuant to Title 17 Section 105 of the United States Code, this file is not subject to copyright protection and is in the public domain.

110th CONGRESS 2d Session H. CON. RES. 278 IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES CONCURRENT RESOLUTION Supporting Taiwan’s fourth direct and democratic presidential elections in March 2008.

Whereas the United States and Taiwan share common ideals and a clear vision for the 21st century, where freedom and democracy are the foundations for peace, prosperity, and progress; Whereas Taiwan has dramatically improved its record on human rights and routinely holds free and fair elections in a multiparty system, as evidenced by Taiwan’s first democratic presidential election in 1996, second in 2000, and third in 2004; Whereas the democratic and open presidential elections in 2000 mark the first transfer of power from one party to another in Taiwan’s history; Whereas Taiwan has demonstrated its unequivocal support for human rights and a commitment to the democratic ideals of freedom of speech, freedom of the press, rule of law, and free and fair elections routinely held in a multiparty system; Whereas Taiwan is one of the strongest democratic allies of the United States in the Asia-Pacific region; Whereas it is United States policy to support and strengthen democracy around the world; Whereas, with its stable democratic system and impressive economic prowess, Taiwan stands apart from many equally young democracies whose freedom and liberty have been severely challenged; and Whereas the United States Congress has organized congressional delegations to witness the electoral process in thriving democracies, including elections in Taiwan: Now, therefore, be it

That it is the sense of the Congress that— (1)the United States Government should reaffirm its unwavering commitment to Taiwan’s democracy and security; and (2)international delegations should be encouraged to visit Taiwan for the purpose of witnessing the presidential elections in March 2008.

Passed the House of Representatives March 5, 2008. Lorraine C. Miller, Clerk.