[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 134 (Wednesday, September 25, 1996)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1683-E1684]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      CONGRATULATING THE REPUBLIC OF CHINA ON ITS 85TH ANNIVERSARY

                                 ______
                                 

                       HON. ENI F.H. FALEOMAVAEGA

                           of american samoa

                    in the house of representatives

                      Tuesday, September 24, 1996

  Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, on the eve of the Republic of China's 
85th anniversary--this October 10, 1996--I wish to congratulate Taiwan 
for the outstanding accomplishments of this thriving and vibrant 
democracy of 21 million people.
  Taiwan is one of the world's most compelling economic success 
stories, rising from World War II's destructiveness to become a global 
trading power with foreign exchange reserves today second only to 
Japan. Taiwan must also be commended for its significant progress 
toward democratization, which came to full bloom this year with 
Tawian's first Presidential elections. These historic elections were 
conducted democratically and peacefully, despite the threats and 
provocations issued by the People's Republic of China.
  In light of these achievements, Taiwan deserves not only our 
admiration, but support for Taiwan's drive for greater participation in 
the affairs of the international community. Taiwan's aspirations to be 
an active member of international organizations of the world community 
are well-founded. It has all the necessary qualifications: a sound 
political system, a much-admired world-class economy, and a genuine 
desire to maintain peace and stability in East Asia, and around the 
globe.
  As noted recently by Taiwan's chief representative to Washington, Dr. 
Jason Hu, Taiwan's people only seek to receive fair treatment with 
dignity in the international community. The goal of participation 
within the global community of governments is, in my opinion, not the 
same as seeking independence.

[[Page E1684]]

  On this 85th anniversary celebration for Taiwan, I would urge our 
colleagues to call upon the world's governments and international 
organizations to open their doors to Taiwan and extend upgraded ties to 
this most deserving friend and democracy.

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