[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 78 (Tuesday, June 16, 1998)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1131]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]

[[Page E1131]]



             CAPITOL HILL WELCOMES LEGISLATORS FROM TAIWAN

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. ROBERT SMITH

                               of oregon

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 16, 1998

  Mr. SMITH of Oregon. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to welcome a 
distinguished legislators' delegation from the Republic of China on 
Taiwan. The legislators represent all major political parties in 
Taiwan: The ruling Nationalist Party, the Democratic Progressive Party, 
the New Party, and non-aligned parties. Members all democratically 
elected by the electorate, this delegation fully demonstrates how 
democracy has worked in the Republic of China on Taiwan. In ten years' 
time, Taiwan has evolved from a one-party state to multi-political 
parties of different ideologies. The growth of elective politics has 
been very healthy for Taiwan. Ambassador Stephen Chen tells me that 
there will be major elections this coming December: mayoral elections, 
legislative yuan (Parliament) elections and municipal elections. There 
is no doubt in my mind that Taiwan politics is vigorous and vibrant. 
Once again, Taiwan is setting a good example of elective democracy for 
other developing nations, especially China.
  On the eve of President Clinton's visit to the People's Republic of 
China, I wish to say that while the P.R.C. is vital to U.S. interests, 
it is equally important that we not ignore the interests of our ally 
and trading partner: The Republic of China on Taiwan. For years and 
years, Taiwan has been buying American agricultural products worth 
billions of dollars and cooperating with us on all major issues 
affecting our two countries.
  I therefore share the many concerns of our Taiwan friends who are 
visiting us here on the Hill today. Let us abide by the Taiwan 
Relations Act and continue our arms sales to Taiwan. It is also my hope 
that both Taiwan and the People's Republic of China will work toward 
eventual reunification when both sides reach similar levels of freedom 
and democracy. In the meantime, both sides should dialogue on all 
issues as equal partners. Moreover, the P.R.C. should declare that it 
will not use force against Taiwan now or in the future.
  Mr. Speaker, I extend my warmest welcome to this very distinguished 
group of legislators from Taiwan. I wish them every success during 
their short visit to Capitol Hill.

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