[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 136 (Friday, September 27, 1996)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1762]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




          TAIWAN'S NATIONAL DAY MARKS THE TRIUMPH OF DEMOCRACY

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                           HON. CHARLIE ROSE

                           of north carolina

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 26, 1996

  Mr. ROSE. Mr. Speaker, on October 10, 1996, the Republic of China 
[ROC] on Taiwan celebrates its national day. I salute the great changes 
that have been undertaken by the people on Taiwan to transform their 
country into one that guarantees the right of every individual to 
participate in the election of its leaders.
  While Taiwan's National Day is a happy occasion, we in the United 
States must be concerned by the recent heightened tensions in the 
region. The People's Republic of China [PRC] has undertaken a program 
of intimidation toward Taiwan. On the eve of Taiwan's Presidential 
elections, the PRC launched missiles less than 100 miles off the coast 
of Taiwan, staged ``island landing'' military exercises, and openly 
threatened naval blockades. The PRC took these actions because 
democratic Taiwan continues to seek greater international recognition.
  The United States has an important role to play in resolving this 
matter. We must continue to work to bring the ROC into the World Trade 
Organization in a timely manner. We also must coordinate with President 
Clinton to make sure that, within the framework of current treaties, 
Taiwan borders are secure. And we must continue to promote Taiwan's 
participation in humanitarian organizations around the world.
  Mr. Speaker, Taiwan held open Presidential elections in March of this 
year. The United States has always promoted the idea of democracy 
throughout the world. Now that democracy is a reality on Taiwan, the 
United States must make certain Taiwan is protected from any external 
threats.
  Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Taiwan on its National Day and send warm 
regards to President Lee Teng Hui on his country's amazing economic and 
democratic successes.

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