[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 56 (Thursday, May 7, 1998)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E791]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               CONGRATULATIONS TO PRESIDENT LEE TENG-HUI

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. ROBERT SMITH

                               of oregon

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 7, 1998

  Mr. SMITH of Oregon. Mr. Speaker, two years ago, on May 20, 1996, Dr. 
Lee Teng-hui and Dr. Lien Chan were sworn into office as the ninth 
President and Vice President of the Republic of China on Taiwan. In the 
last two years, Lee and Lien have accomplished a great deal for their 
country.
  For instance, Taiwan has continued to reduce its trade surplus with 
the United States and maintained its economic and political growth. It 
has brilliantly survived the current Asian financial crisis. It is also 
worthwhile to mention that Taiwan's process of democratization is 
continuing and has drawn praise from Western press.
  It is time we should recognize Taiwan for it is a democratic, free 
enterprising country, worthy of respect and admiration.
  I have enjoyed working with Taiwan's Representative in Washington, 
Ambassador Stephen Chen. He and his aides have kept me totally informed 
of the developments in Taiwan. They are hardworking diplomats.
  Congratulations to the Republic of China on its president's second 
anniversary in office.




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