[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 135 (Thursday, September 26, 1996)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1715-E1716]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       TAIWAN'S 85TH NATIONAL DAY

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. ROBERT A. UNDERWOOD

                                of guam

                    in the house of representatives

                     Wednesday, September 25, 1996

  Mr. UNDERWOOD. Mr. Speaker, this coming October 10, Taiwan, the 
Republic of China, will commemorate its 85th National Day.
  Eighty-five years ago, the Chinese people under the leadership of Dr. 
Sun Yat-sen successfully expelled centuries-old tyrannical rule. Dr. 
Sun's adoption of a political system dedicated to the ideals of 
democracy and based on the consent of the governed was a great victory 
for democracy in the continent of Asia which, until then, was widely 
known for tyranny and despotism. The Chinese people's efforts, under 
Dr. Sun's leadership has come to symbolize a people's aspiration, 
desire and capacity to stand their ground, take control, and choose 
their own destiny. This nation's rejection of tyranny and oppression 
announced to the rest of the world that the desire for freedom is not a 
concept unique to Western peoples. The people of Asia, as elsewhere, 
desire and deserve dignity and freedom.
  Although Dr. Sun did not live to see the full fruition of his labors, 
capable leaders like Generalissimo Chang Kai-shek built upon his legacy 
and provided the essential leadership and guidance which enabled the 
newly created democracy to survive it's toughest tests.
  Taiwan has since become one of the wealthiest nations in the world. 
The last few years has seen the republic's economy grow at a 
spectacular rate. In addition to being one of our closest associates in 
Asia, Taiwan has steadily matured as an economic stronghold. Taiwan is 
currently the sixth largest trading partner to the United States.
  As the delegate from Guam, I recognize the fact that the island and 
people that I represent share deep cultural and historical ties with 
Taiwan. As a matter of fact, my constituency includes Taiwanese 
immigrants. As in numerous other locales, these immigrants have 
integrated themselves with our island community over the years and have 
emerged as a vital force in the development and growth of Guam. In 
addition, Taiwanese tourists contribute to the island's economy. Made 
possible by the visa-waiver program recently implemented for Taiwanese 
citizens Guam has greatly benefited from the business these people 
bring.
  On behalf of the people of Guam I would like to congratulate 
President Lee Teng-hui, Foreign Minister John H. Chang, Representative 
Jason Hu, Director-General Clark Chen and the Taiwanese all over the 
world in the commemoration of Taiwan's 85th National

[[Page E1716]]

Day. I join them in their celebrations and wish them continued 
prosperity.

                          ____________________