[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 119 (Wednesday, September 4, 1996)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1509]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    RECOGNIZING CHINESE NATIONAL DAY

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. BILL BAKER

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, September 4, 1996

  Mr. BAKER of California. Mr. Speaker, on October 9, several thousand 
men and women will gather in San Francisco to celebrate the 85th 
anniversary of the National Day of the Republic of China. This event 
recognizes the beginning of China's move toward democracy, and deserves 
the recognition of this House.
  This past spring, the Republic of China held the first-ever 
democratic election of its President. Prior to the election, I had the 
privilege of meeting with Mr. Chen Rong-jye, the second-ranking 
official of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office here in Washington. 
He showed me a map on which was indicated the locations of mainland 
China's missile launchings in the area around Taiwan, launchings 
intended to intimidate the Republic of China and discourage its 
democratic elections.
  This bullying tactic failed. The courage of the Republic of China and 
its people deserves high praise wherever liberty is of value, most 
especially in our own country.
  National Day is a time when the Chinese people can reflect on a proud 
heritage and contemplate a future of hope and promise. I am pleased to 
extend my best wishes to all in San Francisco who will gather to 
rejoice in the blessings and benefits of their history, and commend 
them for upholding the values of family, work, responsibility, and love 
of freedom so faithfully.

                          ____________________