[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 42 (Wednesday, March 17, 1999)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E452]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




COMMEMORATING THE 20TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE TAIWAN RELATIONS ACT, H. CON. 
                                RES. 56

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. BENJAMIN A. GILMAN

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, March 17, 1999

  Mr. GILMAN. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to introduce today a resolution 
commemorating the 20th anniversary of the Taiwan Relations Act (TRA). 
It is right and fitting that the House of Representatives makes note of 
this important piece of legislation which serves as the basis for 
continued commercial, cultural, security and other relations between 
the United States and Taiwan.
  The Taiwan Relations Act was passed into law on April 10, 1979 and 
has served as a critical element in preserving and promoting ties 
between the United States and Taiwan. The TRA has been instrumental in 
maintaining peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait since its 
enactment in 1979. It is my hope that the TRA will continue to serve to 
ensure that the future of Taiwan be determined by peaceful means. 
Regrettably, the People's Republic of China (PRC) has refused to 
renounce the use of force against Taiwan.
  The United States is pleased with the flourishing on Taiwan of a 
fully-fledged, multi-party, democracy fully respecting human rights and 
civil liberties. It is hoped that Taiwan will serve as an example to 
the PRC and others in the region in this regard and will encourage 
progress in the furthering of democratic principles and practices, 
respect for human rights, and the enhancement of the rule of law.
  The Congress looks forward to a broadening and deepening of 
friendship and cooperation with Taiwan in the years ahead for the 
mutual benefit of the peoples of the United States and Taiwan.
  I am pleased to have this opportunity to introduce this legislation 
and invite my colleagues in the House of Representatives to support 
this Resolution commemorating this distinctive piece of legislation and 
the unique ties between the peoples of the United States and Taiwan.

                          ____________________