[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 158 (Thursday, October 12, 1995)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1938]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 TRIBUTE TO TAIWAN ON HER NATIONAL DAY

                                 ______


                        HON. FRANK PALLONE, JR.

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, October 12, 1995

  Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, on October 10, 1995, the Republic of China 
on Taiwan celebrated its National Day. This day of celebration marks 
the occasion of the end of more than 3,000 years of dynastic rule. I 
salute the great changes that have been undertaken by the people of 
Taiwan to transform their country into one that respects the right of 
the individual to participate in democratic self-rule.
  While Taiwan's National Day is a happy occasion, we here in the 
United States must be concerned by the recent heightening of tensions 
in the region. The People's Republic of China (PRC) has undertaken a 
program of intimidation toward Taiwan. The PRC has launched missiles 
less than 100 miles off the coast of Taiwan, staged ``Island Landing'' 
military exercises and openly threatened mock naval blockades. All 
because democratic Taiwan continues to seek greater international 
recognition.
  The United States has an important role to play in this situation. 
President Clinton will be meeting with PRC President Jiang in New York 
as part of the celebration of the 50th anniversary of the United 
Nations. Under the Taiwan Relations Act of 1980, the United States has 
an interest in promoting a peaceful solution to the Taiwan situation. I 
do not think the PRC's actions reflect a move toward peace, and our 
President needs to remind the PRC of our goals.
  Taiwan will have open Presidential elections in March 1996. The two 
primary political parties have nominated their candidates, and even a 
powerful independent candidate may take the stage. We have promoted the 
ideal of democracy throughout the world. Now that it is a reality on 
Taiwan, we must do what we can to maintain it.
  Again, I want to congratulate Taiwan on its National Day, and send 
warm regards to President Lee Teng-hui on his country's amazing 
success.

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