[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 140 (Thursday, October 8, 1998)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1951]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                    REPUBLIC OF CHINA'S NATIONAL DAY

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. MICHAEL BILIRAKIS

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, October 7, 1998

  Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to call attention to the 
National Day of Republic of China on Taiwan. This day commemorates the 
Wuchang Uprising on October 10, 1911, which led to the establishment of 
the ROC on January 1, 1912.
  The United States' relationship with Taiwan dates back to the end of 
World War II. In the 1950s and 1960s, U.S. forces used Taiwan as a 
forward base against Sino-Soviet communism in Asia. Over the years, we 
have developed strong economic, political and social ties with both the 
government and people of Taiwan.
  Today, Taiwan is one of our most significant trading partners. With 
one of the largest economies in the world, the nation has done 
remarkably well during the current economic turmoil that has been 
engulfing other Asian countries. Taiwan's sound fiscal policies have 
enabled it to remain strong and provide economic assistance to its 
neighbors during this difficult time.
  Over the past decade, the Republic of China has moved rapidly toward 
becoming a democratic society. Free and fair elections are routinely 
held at the local and national levels, and approximately 70 percent of 
engine voters participate in ROC elections. Taiwan is a shining example 
of freedom and democracy in a part of the world in need to role models.
  America must stand by its long-standing commitment to the people and 
government of Taiwan. I hope that we will be able to continue our 
partnership and friendship with the ROC well into the next millennia.
  I want to extend my best wishes to the people of Taiwan on the 
occasion of the Republic of China's National Day.

                          ____________________