[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 157 (Wednesday, October 11, 1995)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1927]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




       TAIWAN CELEBRATES NATIONAL HOLIDAY AND DEMOCRATIC PROGRESS

                                 ______


                            HON. TOM LANTOS

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, October 11, 1995

  Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, yesterday the people of Taiwan celebrated 
the anniversary of the 1911 revolution in China which led to the 
overthrow of the last imperial dynasty and the establishment of the 
Republic of China under Dr. Sun Yat-sen. This was a critically 
important event in the history of modern China, and it is highly 
appropriate to commemorate this event as the watershed moment for the 
beginning of democracy in the Republic of China in Taiwan. We hope that 
one day it will also be commemorated as a turning point in the struggle 
for democracy in the People's Republic of China as well.
  In a formal speech marking this important anniversary, President Lee 
Teng-hui of Taiwan urged the Government of the People's Republic of 
China to respect the democratic system of government and the free 
market economic system that are now in place in Taiwan. President Lee 
said that China cannot resist the trend toward freedom and democracy, 
and that respect for Taiwan's democratic system of government is ``the 
most important precondition for Chinese reunification.''
  The people and Government of Taiwan have made great progress in 
democratic development, and President Lee deserves particular 
commendation for his critical role in this process. Next March, the 
people of Taiwan will have the opportunity to participate in the first 
direct Presidential election. This development reflects the changes 
that have taken place throughout Taiwan in recent years. The evolution 
of a strong democratic tradition on Taiwan is something that all of us 
can welcome.
  Mr. Speaker, I join in extending my warmest best wishes and heartiest 
congratulations to the people of Taiwan on their national day, and I 
wish them great success as they continue their democratic development. 
Government officials in Beijing should take note of the outstanding 
progress that has been achieved on Taiwan in a flourishing democracy.

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