[Congressional Record Volume 146, Number 36 (Tuesday, March 28, 2000)]
[House]
[Pages H1430-H1435]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   CONGRATULATING THE PEOPLE OF TAIWAN FOR SUCCESSFUL CONCLUSION OF 
  PRESIDENTIAL ELECTIONS AND REAFFIRMING UNITED STATES POLICY TOWARD 
                 TAIWAN AND PEOPLE'S REPUBLIC OF CHINA

  Mr. GILMAN. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and agree to the 
concurrent resolution (H. Con. Res 292) congratulating the people of 
Taiwan for the successful conclusion of presidential elections on March 
18, 2000, and reaffirming United States policy toward Taiwan and the 
People's Republic of China, as amended.
  The Clerk read as follows:

                            H. Con. Res. 292

       Whereas section 2(c) of the Taiwan Relations Act (Public 
     Law 96-8) states ``[t]he preservation and enhancement of the 
     human rights of all the people on Taiwan'' to be an objective 
     of the United States;
       Whereas Taiwan has become a multiparty democracy in which 
     all citizens have the right to participate freely in the 
     political process;
       Whereas the people of Taiwan have, by their vigorous 
     participation in electoral campaigns and public debate, 
     strengthened the foundations of a free and democratic way of 
     life;
       Whereas Taiwan successfully conducted a presidential 
     election on March 18, 2000;
       Whereas President Lee Teng-hui of Taiwan has actively 
     supported the consolidation of democratic institutions and 
     processes in Taiwan since 1988 when he became head of state;
       Whereas this election represents the first such transition 
     of national office from one elected leader to another in the 
     history of Chinese societies;
       Whereas the continued democratic development of Taiwan is a 
     matter of fundamental importance to the advancement of United 
     States interests in East Asia and is supported by the United 
     States Congress and the American people;
       Whereas a stable and peaceful security environment in East 
     Asia is essential to the furtherance of democratic 
     developments in Taiwan and other countries, as well as to the 
     protection of human rights throughout the region;
       Whereas since 1972 United States policy toward the People's 
     Republic of China has been predicated upon, as stated in 
     section 2(b)(3) of the Taiwan Relations Act, ``the 
     expectation that the future of Taiwan will be determined by 
     peaceful means'';
       Whereas section 2(b)(6) of the Taiwan Relations Act further 
     pledges ``to maintain the capacity of the United States to 
     resist any resort to force or other forms of coercion that 
     would jeopardize the security, or the social or economic 
     system, of the people of Taiwan'';
       Whereas on June 9, 1998, the House of Representatives voted 
     unanimously to adopt House Concurrent Resolution 270 that 
     called upon the President of the United States to seek ``a 
     public renunciation by the People's Republic of China of any 
     use of force, or threat to use force, against democratic 
     Taiwan'';
       Whereas the People's Republic of China has consistently 
     refused to renounce the use of force against Taiwan;
       Whereas the State Council, an official organ at the highest 
     level of the Government of the People's Republic of China, 
     issued a ``white paper'' on February 21, 2000, which 
     threatened ``to adopt all drastic measures possible, 
     including the use of force,'' if Taiwan indefinitely delays 
     entering into negotiations with the People's Republic of 
     China on the issue of reunification; and
       Whereas the February 21, 2000, statement by the State 
     Council significantly escalates tensions across the Taiwan 
     Straits and sets forth a new condition that has not 
     heretofore been stated regarding the conditions that would 
     prompt the People's Republic of China to use force against 
     Taiwan: Now, therefore, be it
       Resolved by the House of Representatives (the Senate 
     concurring), That--
       (1) the people of Taiwan are to be congratulated for the 
     successful conclusion of presidential elections on March 18, 
     2000, and for their continuing efforts in developing and 
     sustaining a free, democratic society which respects human 
     rights and embraces free markets;
       (2) President Lee Teng-hui of Taiwan is to be congratulated 
     for his significant contributions to freedom and democracy on 
     Taiwan;
       (3) President-elect Chen Shui-bian and Vice President-elect 
     Annette Hsiu-lien Lu of Taiwan are to be congratulated for 
     their victory, and they have the strong support and best 
     wishes of the House of Representatives and the American 
     people for a successful administration;
       (4) it is the sense of the House of Representatives that 
     the People's Republic of China should abandon its provocative 
     threats against Taiwan and undertake steps that would lead to 
     a substantive dialogue, including a renunciation of the use 
     of force against Taiwan and progress toward democracy, the 
     rule of law, and protection of human and religious rights in 
     the People's Republic of China; and
       (5) the provisions of the Taiwan Relations Act (Public Law 
     96-8) are hereby affirmed as the legal standard by which 
     United States policy toward Taiwan shall be determined.

  The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursuant to the rule, the gentleman from New 
York (Mr. Gilman) and the gentleman from Ohio (Mr. Brown) each will 
control 20 minutes.
  The Chair recognizes the gentleman from New York (Mr. Gilman).
  Mr. GILMAN. Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as he may consume to the 
gentleman from Texas (Mr. Armey), the distinguished majority leader who 
has taken a great deal of time in focusing attention on the Taiwan 
problem.
  Mr. ARMEY. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from New York (Mr. 
Gilman) for yielding me this time.
  Mr. Speaker, the House today is commemorating a very, very special 
event: The first democratic election leading to a transfer of power in 
the 5,000-year history of the Chinese people.
  This is, indeed, a momentous event not only for the Chinese, not only 
for Taiwan, but for the cause of democracy itself. It was not that long 
ago, Mr. Speaker, that many people believed that democracy may be a 
dying creed. I remember as recently as 1984, one French philosopher 
respected by some friends of mine wrote that the era of democracy may 
be, and I quote, ``a brief parenthesis that is even now closing before 
our eyes.''
  There was a popular view, shared by conservative pessimists as well 
as left-wing revolutionaries, that some form of dictatorship was the 
only alternative to even worse forms of government.
  At best, these people believed that democracy was only appropriate 
for some cultures, but not for most. Though they rarely said so, what 
they really meant was that it was only suited for some kinds of people 
and not for others. Certainly, not for Asians who, it was said, had 
unique ``Asian values.'' That made democracy unsuited for them and they 
unsuited for democracy.
  Well, Mr. Speaker, how wrong they were. The Taiwan elections 
vindicate once again the great wisdom of the American founding fathers 
when they wrote these wonderful words that ``All men are created 
equal'' and all men ``are endowed by their Creator with certain 
inalienable rights.''
  Mr. Speaker, freedom and democracy are not more precious for our 
culture than they are for the people of other cultures. There are no 
alien values that lead some people to prefer dictatorship over self-
government. Freedom and democracy are, in fact, the shared aspirations 
of all human beings everywhere, from Athens to England to America 
indeed to all of Asia.
  Taiwan can now serve as a shining example to the unfree people in its 
part of the world. It shows that democracy works in a Chinese culture. 
It shows that democracy can resist threats and bullying from abroad. It 
shows that democracy is the only way that a Nation can be both rich and 
free.
  Mr. Speaker, let me add that even as we rejoice in Taiwan's 
democratic success, we also wish to aid all the Chinese people as they 
seek greater freedom, and that includes those in the People's Republic 
of China. It is for this reason

[[Page H1431]]

we are doing everything possible to pass Permanent Normal Trade 
Relations for China. We know that free and open trade will help make 
China an open and free society. We will pass PNTR, and we will do it 
this year.
  Mr. Speaker, the House today is pleased to offer our heartfelt 
congratulations to the people of Taiwan and to their new president and 
vice president-elect. All the world should know that the people of 
Taiwan and their democratic government enjoy the friendship, 
admiration, and support of the government of the United States.
  Mr. GILMAN. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume to 
thank the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Armey) the distinguished majority 
leader, for his supportive remarks with regard to this resolution.
  Mr. BROWN of Ohio. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may 
consume.
  Mr. Speaker, the election of the Democratic Progressive Party's Chen 
Shui-bian and Annette Lu is truly an historic event with profound and 
moving implications for Taiwan's people. The race was more than a race 
between and among candidates. It was a race between the people of 
Taiwan and the Beijing leadership.
  Despite Beijing's protests, despite even its threats, this election 
signified the long-standing commitment of Taiwan to democratic ideals. 
I would like to extend my congratulations to the people of Taiwan in 
their success in conducting a free and a fair election.
  On March 15, only three days before the election, the premier of the 
People's Republic of China, Zhu Rongji, held a news conference which 
intensified China's threats of violence if Taiwan were to elect a pro-
independence candidate and move away from the People's Republic of 
China ``one China'' policy. This act was only the latest demonstration 
of China's attempts to corrupt the Taiwanese democratic process. But as 
a sign of desire for political change and faith in democracy, the 
voters of Taiwan overcame any fears of foreign threats and elected a 
candidate they felt would best lead Taiwan into the 21st century.
  I applaud President-elect Chen's immediate overtures to improve the 
situation with China. Already he has invited President Jiang Zemin to 
visit Taiwan, and he has suggested abolishing Taiwan's ban on direct 
trade with China.
  Beijing must now also exercise restraint and start accepting the 
reality that there are two sovereign countries facing the Taiwan 
Strait.
  Mr. Speaker, the U.S. should support the strides Taiwan's new 
leadership is making toward establishing a peaceful Taiwan and toward 
making it absolutely clear that the issues between China and Taiwan 
must be resolved peacefully and must be resolved with the assent of the 
people of Taiwan.
  I had the pleasure last April in my office of meeting now President-
elect Chen. He is a man of great ability and representative in many 
ways of modern Taiwan. I am confident his administration will provide 
the necessary leadership in these difficult and sensitive times for his 
country.
  I look forward to working with him, as I am sure all of us in this 
body do, in improving relations between the United States and the 
Republic of Taiwan.
  Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.
  Mr. GILMAN. Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as he may consume to the 
gentleman from San Dimas, California (Mr. Dreier), the distinguished 
chairman of the Committee on Rules.
  Mr. DREIER. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate the gentleman from New York 
(Mr. Gilman) on this resolution, House Concurrent Resolution 292, and 
thank him for his leadership on this important issue and his vigorous 
pursuit of freedom over the many years he has been serving in the 
Congress. I also thank the gentleman from Ohio (Mr. Brown) for his 
support of the resolution.
  Mr. Speaker, it is all designed to congratulate the people of Taiwan 
for the very successful election that they realized a week ago last 
Saturday. What is important to note, Mr. Speaker, is that this ground-
breaking election marks the first transition from one political party 
to another in the 5,000-year history of the Chinese civilization. Let 
me say that again. This election that we have just observed marks the 
first transition from one political party to another in the 5,000-year 
history of Chinese civilization. That is an extraordinary 
accomplishment.
  In fact, it is important to note that this largely peaceful 
transition that we have observed over the last decade and a half from 
an authoritarian regime, to what we have now witnessed as full 
democracy and a transition from one political party to another, is one 
of the greatest victories of the 20th century when it comes to our 
vigorous pursuit of political pluralism worldwide. One which I think it 
is important to note goes hand in hand with the very important economic 
reforms and ties that the United States of America has had with Taiwan.

                              {time}  1530

  It does go hand-in-hand. And I think that we all know that the very 
vigorous public debate that was spawned by competitive elections has 
played a role in strengthening the foundations for a free and 
democratic way of life. And we are witnessing that right now on Taiwan.
  The recent election of President-elect Chen sends, I believe, a very 
strong and positive message that democracy works in China. It works in 
Asia. It works in a Chinese society. We all hope very much that it will 
be able to expand on to the mainland.
  Mr. Speaker, without a doubt, there are many very, very tough 
domestic challenges that President-elect Chen will be facing as he 
takes over the reins in Taiwan. However, it is key to recognize that 
one of his very first public statements came in an interview that he 
did with my hometown newspaper, the Los Angeles Times, I do not call it 
the Chicago Tribune yet; but it is the Los Angeles Times, where he did 
a very, very important interview stating that he strongly supports 
mainland China's accession to the World Trade Organization, which, 
obviously, as we all know, is the global, rules-based trading system, 
which would allow for the elimination of tariff barriers so that the 
rest of the world can gain access to the 1.3 billion consumers in 
China.
  We know that following China's accession to the World Trade 
Organization, we will see Taiwan immediately join the WTO. And the 
People's Republic of China has supported that.
  It is important to note that immediately following his election, 
President-elect Chen said that he strongly supported the idea of China 
acceding to the WTO. He recognizes that the economic fates of both 
Taiwan and mainland China are inextricably tied. In fact, not many 
people are aware of the fact there are nearly 46,000 businesses on 
mainland China that are owned by Taiwanese.
  In fact, the single largest supplier of foreign direct investment to 
mainland China happens to be the island of 22 million people of Taiwan. 
The commercial relations with its cross-strait neighbor are vital to 
the continued prosperity of mainland China and of Taiwan.
  Finally, Mr. Speaker, I am certain that this House is united behind 
the principle that the future of Taiwan be determined in a manner that 
is both peaceful and mutually agreeable to the people on both sides of 
the Taiwan Strait.
  We as a Nation stand firmly behind the 1979 Taiwan Relations Act. 
Military action, threatened or actual, is clearly the wrong way to 
proceed. And I believe that this election sends a strong signal that we 
can and, in fact, see improved relations there.
  I congratulate President Chen for the strong steps that he has taken 
to bring the temperature down and to work towards what we hope will be 
peaceful association there.
  I thank my friend for yielding me the time. Again, I appreciate his 
strong leadership on this very important issue.
  Mr. GILMAN. Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the gentleman from 
California (Chairman Dreier) for his strong supportive remarks with 
regard to the People's Republic of China.
  Mr. GILMAN. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield as much time as he may 
consume to the gentleman from Nebraska (Mr. Bereuter), the 
distinguished chairman of our subcommittee on Asia and the Pacific.
  Mr. BEREUTER. Mr. Speaker, I thank the chairman for yielding me

[[Page H1432]]

the time. I rise in strong support of House Concurrent Resolution 292, 
the resolution introduced by the distinguished majority leader, Mr. 
Armey, which congratulates the people of Taiwan and Taiwan's leaders 
for the successful conclusion of their presidential election on March 
18.
  Indeed, this election represents, as the majority leader and the 
Committee on Rules chairman just indicated, the first such democratic 
transition to high national office, one elected leader to another, in 
the very long history of Chinese society. That fact bears repeating.
  The people of Taiwan are to be congratulated for their continuing 
efforts in developing and sustaining a free democratic society which 
respects human rights and embraces free markets.
  Contrary to the claims of those trying to defend Communism and other 
authoritarian forms of government, this election demonstrates that 
democracy clearly could work in the People's Republic of China, and it 
explains the reason why the Chinese people increasingly yearn for 
democracy and could flourish under it.
  The success of democracy in Taiwan is, indeed, a powerful model for 
the mainland. This resolution, which was expeditiously considered last 
week without opposition in the Subcommittee on Asia and the Pacific, 
which this Member chairs, and subsequently in the full Committee on 
International Relations, also acknowledges that a stable and peaceful 
security environment in East Asia is essential to the furtherance of 
democratic developments in the Taiwan area and in other countries. It 
reaffirms U.S. policy regarding Taiwan as set forth in the Taiwan 
Relations Act.
  In this regard, the resolution appropriately, this Member believes, 
expresses the sense of Congress that the People's Republic of China 
should refrain from making provocative threats against Taiwan and 
should instead undertake steps that would lead to substantive dialogue, 
including a renunciation of the use of force against Taiwan, the 
encouragement of democracy, the rule of law, and the protection of 
human and religious rights in the People's Republic of China.
  Mr. Speaker, this Member is encouraged that since the election in 
Taiwan, Beijing has curtailed, to a certain degree, its aggressive and 
unhelpful rhetoric and appears again, to a certain degree, to be 
extending the offer for a renewed dialogue.
  It is hoped that this is an offer which is offered in, in fact, good 
faith. Across the Taiwan Strait, President-elect Chen and others in 
Taipei are also calling for renewed dialogue and are already proposing 
the kind of responsible statesman-like policies that could expand and 
accelerate this dialogue.
  Mr. Speaker, this is a timely, necessary, and straightforwardly 
positive resolution that sends an important message to both Beijing and 
Taipei. As a cosponsor of H. Con. Res. 292, this Member urges his 
colleagues to support the resolution.
  Mr. GILMAN. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Nebreska (Mr. 
Bereuter) for his supportive remarks.
  Mr. Speaker, how much time do we have remaining?
  The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. Petri). The gentleman from New York has 
8 minutes remaining.
  Mr. BROWN of Ohio. Mr. Speaker, I have no further speakers, but I 
reserve the balance of my time.


                             General Leave

  Mr. GILMAN. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may 
have 5 legislative days within which to revise and extend their remarks 
on H. Con. Res. 292.
  The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there objection to the request of the 
gentleman from New York?
  There was no objection.
  Mr. GILMAN. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
  (Mr. GILMAN asked and was given permission to revise and extend his 
remarks.)
  Mr. GILMAN. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to rise in support of House 
Concurrent Resolution 292, introduced in the House by the distinguished 
gentleman from Texas (Mr. Armey), the majority leader, who has taken an 
active role in our international affairs.
  I want to take this opportunity to congratulate the people of Taiwan 
on a successful election and for taking another step in consolidating 
their democratic evolution. They should be very proud of their 
achievement, registering a voter turnout of over 80 percent. They have 
clearly articulated their determination to build a society of freedom 
and of democracy.
  On May 20 of this year, for the first time in Taiwan's history of 
over 400 years, the mantle of executive power will pass from one 
democratically elected president to another. This should serve as a 
source of pride for the Chinese people everywhere.
  This peaceful transfer of power will take place despite the misguided 
attempts by the government of Beijing to intimidate Taiwan's voters and 
candidates and influence the outcome of their democratic election.
  The new government of Chen Shui-Bian faces many challenges as it 
ascends to office. We look forward to learning more of his vision for 
his administration.
  I want to commend the President-elect for his proposal of embarking 
on a journey of reconciliation with Beijing and his offer to meet with 
the Chinese leaders. Talks between Taipei and Beijing should only go 
forward at a pace and scope that is acceptable to both parties.
  I want to encourage the PRC to exercise restraint, to avoid fanning 
the flames of nationalism over Taiwan in an effort to divert attention 
from their own internal problems, and to open substantive dialogue with 
Taipei, and to end its history of military threats toward that island.
  As has long been American policy, it is essential that the future of 
Taiwan be determined in a peaceful and non-coercive and mutually 
agreeable manner to the people on both sides of the strait.
  We hope the world will take adequate notice of what has transpired in 
Taiwan; that being that another Asian nation has fully embraced 
democratic principles and practices. This further proves that democracy 
is not an Eastern or a Western value as some might contend, but it is a 
universal value of the right of people everywhere.
  I especially hope that the 1.2 billion people of the PRC and their 
unelected government take particular notice of the prosperous, free, 
and open model Taiwan provides for China's future.
  With the new government comes new opportunities. Accordingly, I call 
upon our administration to work productively with the new government 
and treat President-elect Chen as an equal partner in addressing the 
cross-strait issues.
  I also urge our administration to adhere to the ``Reagan Six 
Assurances.'' As my colleagues may recall, in July of 1982, the Reagan 
administration wisely promised Taipei that it would not: one, set a 
date for the ending of arms sales to Taiwan; two, consult with China on 
arms sales; three, play a mediation role between PRC and Taiwan; four, 
revise the Taiwan Relations Act; five, change its position regarding 
sovereignty over Taiwan; and, six, exert pressure on Taipei to enter 
into negotiations with Beijing.
  Regrettably, those ``Six Assurances'' have been set aside in part, or 
completely ignored, by the present administration. These common sense 
guarantees are a solid basis for American Taiwan policy and should be 
reinstitutionalized as guideposts of the conduct of bilateral relations 
with Taipei and with Beijing.
  I recommend strongly that our administration take no action to delay 
or undermine this year's arms sales talks with Taiwan. The talks should 
be concluded as scheduled on April 24, and Taiwan's legitimate defense 
needs should be met in light of China's continuing military build-up.
  Despite protestations by some to the contrary, China is, in fact, 
precipitating an arms race in Asia and is working towards achieving 
military superiority over Taiwan and the ability to influence that 
island's future through coercion, an action in direct contravention to 
long-standing American policy and U.S.-Sino communiques.
  We can be assured that Beijing will move at some point in the future 
to test the mettle of the new Taipei government. China is biding its 
time for the moment while a Permanent Normal Trade Relations hangs in 
the balance in the Congress.

[[Page H1433]]

  But once that issue is addressed and a new Taiwanese administration 
is inaugurated, China may opt to act militarily in some fashion against 
Taiwan. Such a misguided policy of restricting arms sales by the 
Clinton administration to Taiwan now will only serve to increase the 
likelihood of Chinese adventurism, miscalculation, and military 
confrontation over Taiwan's future.
  Any equivocating on this year's arms sales process will send the 
wrong signal at the wrong time to both China and to Taiwan. Instead of 
eclipsing a crisis through strength and deterrence, the administration 
may be in fact fomenting a crisis in the Taiwan Strait through weakness 
and through indecision.
  Finally, Mr. Speaker, I am proud to be a cosponsor of this 
legislation. I want to thank the majority leader for his good work in 
bringing it to the floor.
  Accordingly, I urge my colleagues to strongly support this measure.
  I congratulate the people of Taiwan once again on a free and fair 
election.
  Ms. PELOSI. Mr. Speaker, today I rise in strong support of H. Con. 
Res. 292--Congratulating the people of Taiwan on their successful 
presidential elections on March 18. This election serves as a testament 
to their continuing efforts in sustaining a free society that respects 
democracy and human rights.
  The people of Taiwan deserve our praise and support for conducting 
this election. They showed that true democracy can be successful even 
in the face of military threats by the Chinese government. This 
election is a reminder that the threat of a military attack will not be 
successful in a political system where the people can exercise the 
right to determine their own future. The people of Taiwan have taken 
great risks in sticking to their principles.
  The second free election in Taiwan represents a coming of age for 
this maturing democracy. This is the first time in 50 years that the 
Nationalist Party (KMT) will have to give up its political power. The 
peaceful transfer of power is a key turning point for every successful 
democracy.
  In particular, I would like to congratulate the new President of 
Taiwan, Mr. Chen Shui-bian. Mr. Chen was born in rural Taiwan about the 
time of the Chinese Communist Revolution. Since then, Mr. Chen has been 
an outspoken advocate for human rights and has served as a successful 
mayor of Taipei in recent years.
  Over the course of his campaign, Mr. Chen has shown prudence in 
handling the China issue. In his victory speech, he promised to 
continue economic relations with mainland China and seek a ``permanent 
peace.'' It is my hope that China and Taiwan will continue to negotiate 
their differences in a peaceful manner. I would also like to commend 
Vice-President elect Annette Liu who has advocated for democratic 
reform in Taiwan on her visits to Washington, D.C.
  This election proves that the Chinese people, like people all over 
the world, will choose freedom and democracy when given the 
opportunity. By contrast, the Chinese government continues to escalate 
the repression and human rights of its own people--despite the thriving 
democracy across the strait. The Taiwan elections should serve as an 
example that the only real hope of eventual reunification rests in the 
possibility of true freedom and democracy in China.
  Mr. PAUL. Mr. Speaker, today with H. Con. Res. 292 Congress bestows 
well-deserved congratulations upon the people of Taiwan for the 
successful conclusion of presidential elections on March 18, 2000, and 
for their continuing efforts to develop and sustain a free republic 
that respects individual rights and embraces free markets. President 
Lee Teng-hui of Taiwan should also be praised for his significant 
contributions to freedom in Taiwan.
  Unfortunately, because the bill pronounces the Taiwan Relations Act 
(P.L. 96-8) as the legal standard by which U.S. policy toward Taiwan is 
governed, I cannot support the measure. This Taiwan Relations Act, 
effectuated a United States policy which recognized an attack against 
Taiwan as inimical to an attack on the United States.
  Just as it is wrong to force our preferences on other countries and 
cultures, it is wrong to dictate politics. The United States has 
absolutely no moral or constitutional right to do so. In fact, action 
of that sort could rightfully be considered an act of aggression on our 
part, and our founding fathers made it very, very clear that war should 
be contemplated only when national security is immediately threatened. 
to play the part of policemen of the world degrades all who seek to 
follow the Constitution. The Constitution does not allow our government 
to participate in actions against a foreign country when there is no 
immediate threat to the United States.
  Sadly, the U.S. has in recent years played the role of world 
interventionist and global policeman. Thomas Jefferson stated in his 
first inaugural address: ``Peace, commerce and honest friendship with 
all nations--entangling alliances with none, I deem [one of] the 
essential principles of our government, and consequently [one of] those 
which ought to shape its administration.'' Instead, the U.S. government 
has become the government force that unconstitutionally subsidizes one 
country and then pledges taxpayer dollars and lives to fight on behalf 
of that subsidized country' enemies. It's the same sort of wisdom that 
would subsidize tobacco farmers and pay the health care costs of those 
who then choose to smoke.
  Each year the people of the United States write a check to subsidize 
China, one of the most brutal, anti-American regimes in the world. It 
has been in vogue of late for everyone in Washington, it seems, to 
eagerly denounce the egregious abuses of the Chinese people at the 
hands of the communist dictators. Yet no one in our federal government 
has been willing to take China on in any meaningful way. Very few 
people realize that China is one of the biggest beneficiaries of 
American subsidization. Thanks to the largesse of this Congress, China 
enjoys the flow of U.S. taxpayers cash into Beijing's coffers. Yet, 
today we are asked to pledge support for Taiwan when we could best 
demonstrate support for Taiwan by terminating subsidies to that 
country's enemies.
  Again, my congratulations to the Taiwanese on their continuing 
efforts to develop and sustain a free republic that respects individual 
rights and embraces free markets and to President Lee Teng-hui for his 
contributions to that end.
  Mr. LARSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H. Con. 
Res. 292 to congratulate the people of Taiwan on the successful 
presidential elections on March 18th and for their continuing efforts 
in developing and sustaining a democratic society which embraces free 
markets and respects human rights. I am a proud co-sponsor of this bill 
and encourage my colleagues to vote in favor of it.
  I believe that the freedom of Taiwan's 22 million Chinese people to 
participate in the competitive election of their president is surely a 
reason for Congress to pass this resolution in celebration of 
democracy. The bill congratulates Taiwan's current President Lee Teng-
hui, Taiwan's ``Father of Democracy,'' who presided over Taiwan's twin 
miracles of economic development and political reform. It also 
congratulates Taiwan's President-elect, Chen Shui-bian, and Vice 
President-elect, Annette Hsiu-lien Lu, on their election, which ended a 
half-century of one-party rule there.
  I have followed these historic events in Taiwan closely and with 
interest. I have also been assisted in understanding these issues by 
the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office here in 
Washington. This Office, and the very capable Benson Wang in 
particular, have provided me and my staff with straight-forward 
information on Taiwan and events there, which I appreciate greatly. I 
am hopeful that the companion measure we will vote on today, to 
authorize $75 million to upgrade the American Institute in Taiwan's 
facilities in Taipei, will allow the U.S. to have the same high quality 
of representation in that country.
  This peaceful transfer of power brings Taiwan to the forefront of 
democratic nations in Asia, and provides a shining example of freedom 
for mainland China and other nations in the region to follow. This free 
election took place despite Beijing's clumsy and counter-productive 
attempts to intimidate President-elect Chen and his supporters. Perhaps 
the government in Beijing is more concerned that this election will 
result in further democracy movements in China than they are about the 
possibility of Taiwan's independence. This is why I especially support 
this measure's provisions to encourage China to make progress toward 
democracy, the rule of law, and the protection of human and religious 
rights.
  Mr. Speaker, let me conclude by saying that I believe that it is 
important for the United States to salute and support Taiwan's 
democracy, and I therefore urge my colleagues to join me in voting for 
this resolution. Thank you.
  Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Con. Res. 292 
and to congratulate the people of Taiwan on their successful 
presidential elections on March 18, 2000.
  The election results impressively demonstrate the strength and 
vitality of Taiwan's democracy. I strongly support the right of the 
people of Taiwan to decide their own political future.
  The victory for president-elect Chen Shui-bian, the candidate of the 
Democratic Progressive Party, and vice-president-elect, Annette Lu, a 
pioneering feminist and former political prisoner, symbolize the 
beginning of a new era in Taiwanese politics after 51 years of rule by 
the Nationalist Party.
  The development of Taiwan from authoritarian rule to a vibrant 
democracy during only two decades has been truly inspiring. The

[[Page H1434]]

pace of political reform accelerated in the middle and late 1980s. 
Martial law was ended in July 1987 and in 1992, for the first time in 
Taiwanese history, a new parliament was elected.
  In its second direct presidential election almost 83 percent of 
Taiwanese voters cast their ballots--an impressive turn-out that 
underlines the great support among the population for the democratic 
process.
  I commend the people of Taiwan for this peaceful transition and their 
commitment to democratic values and ideas. The consistent growth of the 
Taiwanese economy is closely related to the success of Taiwanese 
democracy.
  I firmly believe that a democratic Taiwan is the best guarantee for 
prosperity, peace and security in the region.
  Taiwan has been a valued and reliable partner to the United States 
during the previous decades and I am sure this constructive 
relationship will continue, after president-elect Chen Shui-bian takes 
office.
  Mr. DeLAY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of the 
resolution offered by the Majority Leader, Mr. Armey, and am proud to 
be an original cosponsor.
  The people of Taiwan should be commended for their brave and 
inspiring show of courage in support of democratic values.
  The people of Taiwan stood in the face of tremendous intimidation and 
constant threats from the tyrants in Communist China, and they refused 
to back down. About 80 percent of the people went to the polls to 
exercise the most sacred of democratic freedoms--the right of citizens 
to choose their own leaders. Mr. Speaker, that is the essence of 
democracy.
  Undoubtedly, this new administration in Taiwan will face many 
challenges. For the first time, Taiwan will experience a peaceful 
transition of executive power. This transition will not be easy, but 
the peaceful passing of power is at the core of democracy. The United 
States must support this transition in every way possible.
  This expression of freedom should not serve as a threat to Beijing, 
but as an inspiration. Hopefully, the day will soon come when the 
people of communist China, for so long fettered by the chains of 
communism and tyranny, will be able to determine their own destiny 
through free and fair elections.
  Until that time, it should be clear that the United States is firm in 
its commitment to Taiwan, and I urge the Administration to use this 
occasion to signal to the world that we will stand by and support our 
democratic allies. In the meantime, Taiwan should meet future threats 
by Beijing with the same strength and determination that guided this 
most recent election.
  Mr. PORTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of this resolution. 
I want to thank the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Armey) for bringing this 
important resolution to the floor in such a timely manner.
  I want to congratulate Taiwan on its recent free and fair elections. 
In a region of the world where democracy is not widely accepted, it is 
important that milestones like the elections of March 18th do not go 
unrecognized. Despite threats from Beijing, the Taiwanese set 
themselves apart from their neighbors by going to the polls and voting 
for the candidate who they wanted to be their leader. It is welcoming 
to see that there are peoples around the world who do not succumb to 
threats and pressure and instead exercise their guaranteed rights. Also 
the record number of the eligible voters who went to the polls, 82.7 
percent, is very encouraging.
  Taiwan has proven itself to be one of the true democracies in a 
region surrounded by dictators, military regimes, and human rights 
abusers. The United States must do everything within its power to stand 
behind these defenders of democracy and human rights around the world.
  President Lee Teng-hui is to be commended for leading his country 
during a tenuous time. When he took office in 1988 martial law in 
Taiwan had just ended. He successfully built a strong foundation on 
which democracy and freedom has flourished. On May 20th of this year, 
the first peaceful transfer of power to a popularly elected opposition 
leader by Chinese anywhere will take place. President Lee Teng-hui of 
the Nationalist Party will turn the presidency over to the recently 
elected Chen Shui-bian of the Democratic Progressive Party. For the 
first time in half a century, all of Taiwan's history, the governing 
party will change.
  I wish to convey congratulations to President-elect Chen Shui-bian 
and Vice-President-elect Annette Hsiu-lien Lu. Leading Taiwan into the 
next century, and being at the helm during the first changing of a 
political party in Taiwan's history, will be a great challenge. 
However, I am confident that with the support of the Taiwanese people 
and the continued support of the international community, Taiwan will 
continue to be a pillar in the region for democracy and freedom.
  Again, I congratulate Taiwan. I hope and believe that Taiwan can be a 
window into the future of Asia. A future where everyone is free--free 
from abuse, free to speak, free to practice the religion of choice and 
free to vote. A free, stable and prosperous Taiwan serves as a positive 
example in a region where none of these qualities are widely accepted.
  Mrs. MINK of Hawaii. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to have this 
opportunity to join my colleagues in congratulating President-elect 
Chen Shui-bian and Vice President-elect Annette Lu of Taiwan on their 
impressive victory. The election results are testament to the strength 
of Taiwan's democracy, which has witnessed the peaceful transition of 
power from the Nationalist Party that ruled China for 50 years.
  The election results are also a testament to the courage and 
independence of the people of Taiwan, who refused to be intimidated by 
the increasingly bellicose threats from China on the eve of the 
election.
  I commend President-elect Chen Shui-bian for his constructive and 
positive statements on relations with China since his election. His 
sensitivity and statesmanship will be critical to lowering the level of 
tension between China and Taiwan.
  I am especially delighted at Vice President-elect Annette Lu's 
election. She will be the highest-ranking female government official in 
Taiwan's history! Her new position and her impressive accomplishments 
as an advocate for women, human rights, and democracy make her an 
exciting leader to watch.
  Mr. ORTIZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to thank the House, particularly 
Chairman Ben Gilman and Ranking Member Sam Gejdenson, for bringing this 
important resolution to the floor.
  I join all in this Congress in congratulating the Republic of China 
for the success of their recent elections. A successful election is one 
which is fair to all and whose results are respected by everyone. In 
fact, in a democracy, the most important election is the second 
election, not the first. The second election is the truest test of 
commitment to democracy. If a nation can watch the peaceful transfer of 
power from one party to another, their journey as a democracy is indeed 
on solid ground.
  President-elect Chen Shui-bian of the Democratic Progressive Party 
won the presidential election, replacing President Lee Teng-hui. The 
Far East is a favorite destination of mine when I lead trade 
delegations, and I have met and worked with President Lee. He has made 
immeasurable contributions to the solid foundation of democracy in 
Taiwan, and he will hold a prominent place in Taiwan's history as the 
first democratically elected president in Taiwan's history.
  While the purpose of today's resolution is to congratulate President-
elect Chen Shui-bian and Vice President-elect Annette Hsiu-lien Lu on 
their victory, I am pleased we are also remembering the most important 
element of this election: the people of the Republic of China. When a 
democracy freely votes, respects human rights and embraces free 
markets, they are a democracy among the established democracies of the 
world.
  The United States is hopeful that Taiwan will make use of its new 
power as a growing democracy to lead a substantive dialogue in that 
part of the world about democracy, the rule of law, and the protection 
of human and religious rights.
  Again, I thank the Majority Leader and the International Relations 
Committee for bringing this important resolution to the attention of 
the House of Representatives.
  Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I wish to commend the Majority Leader (Mr. 
Armey) for the resolution we are considering today which congratulates 
President-elect Chen Shuibian and Vice President-elect Annette Lu on 
their victory in a free and open and democratic election in Taiwan. I 
also want to commend my distinguished colleague and friend from 
Nebraska, the Chairman of the Subcommittee on Asia of our International 
Relations Committee, Mr. Bereuter, for his leadership on this issue.
  Mr. Speaker, Taiwan is one of the great success stories of the post-
World War II era. At the end of the war, Taiwan was a destitute, 
primitive, backward society. Today, it is one of the great economic 
triumphs of this century--a vibrant, innovative, creative economy, the 
18th largest in the world. The strength of Taiwan's economy is 
reflected in the fact that it is our nation's 7th largest trading 
partner.
  Taiwan is also one of the great political success stories of the 
twentieth century. During the last two decades, Taiwan had become a 
full-fledged democracy. From an American point of view, there is 
nothing more desirable than to see an economically under-developed 
autocracy become a full functioning, vibrant democracy as we have seen 
in Taiwan.
  In this regard, Mr. Speaker, the recent election marks another 
important milestone in the consolidation of democracy in Taiwan. This 
election marks the first peaceful transfer of power from the KMT 
(Nationalist) party, which has played the dominant political role in 
Taiwan for the past half century, to Mr. Clen, the candidate of the 
Democratic Progressive Party. This peaceful change of political power

[[Page H1435]]

is reflection of the maturation of Taiwanese democracy.
  I do want to pay tribute to President Lee Teng-hui, the first 
democractically elected President in the history of the Chinese people. 
He has ably and faithfully served the people of Taiwan during his 
tenure as president, and as he steps down now at the completion of his 
presidential term, we owe him our thanks for the friendship he has 
shown the United States.
  I also want to pay tribute to President-elect Chen for the 
responsible and thoughtful way which he has approached the difficult 
issue of Taiwan's relationship with mainland China. We in the United 
States welcome his statesmanship and see it as a further reflection of 
the maturity of Taiwan's democracy.
  Mr. Speaker, these important changes in Taiwan stand in sharp 
contrast with the continuing authoritarian and dictatorial government 
which rules the People's Republic of China. I think this resolution we 
are considering today needs to be viewed as one that congratulates the 
people of Taiwan on having attained a high degree of economic 
development and creating a functioning political democracy and starkly 
contrasts these positive developments with those in the People's 
Republic of China. There is a free press in Taiwan, unlike the PRC. 
There are political alternatives in Taiwan, but not in mainland China.
  Taiwan also recognizes the desire of its people to function in a free 
and democratic fashion, unlike China. In particular Taiwan permits 
religious groups freedom of worship. In China, on the other hand, the 
practitioners of Falun Gong continue to be persecuted. Those who seek 
to practice their faith are prohibited or are limited to officially 
recognized and officially organized churches which have more to do with 
securing political support for the communist regime than they do with 
religious worship. The followers of all faiths--in China, as well as 
Taiwan--must have the freedom to practice their religion. The handful 
of incredibly courageous individuals in China who have expressed views 
contrary to the communist regime must be released.
  Mr. Speaker, the resolution we are considering today acknowledges the 
outstanding contributions of the Chinese people. I personally have the 
highest regard for Chinese civilization and what it has contributed to 
the culture of all humankind. It is one of the great tragedies of 
history that these wonderful and cultured people are ruled by an 
autocratic and dictatorial regime.
  Mr. Speaker, I strongly urge my colleagues to join me in supporting 
this resolution, which recognizes the enormous achievements of the 
people of Taiwan and holds out great hope for the people of China.
  Mr. WU. Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulate the people of Taiwan on 
the successful March 18th, 2000 presidential election. Taiwan's 
decades-long political transformation and the recent election are 
indeed great examples of Taiwan's commitment to a government of the 
people, by the people and for the people.
  As the first member of the United States Congress born in Taiwan, I 
observed with great interest Taiwan's extremely competitive 
presidential campaign. The open process is a tribute to the people of 
Taiwan, and to the island's real, working democratic process. Taiwan 
has indeed achieved democracy under adversity and joined the great 
democracies of the world.
  Once again, I would like to congratulate the people of Taiwan on 
their courage and commitment to forming a more democratic and complete 
society. In addition, I would also like to congratulate all the 
candidates, especially President-elect Chen Shui-bian and Vice 
President-elect Annette Lu, for a very open and competitive campaign. I 
wish the Taiwanese people well and hope to work together with all 
people in the region for a peaceful and prosperous future.
  Mr. GILMAN. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.
  Mr. BROWN of Ohio. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.
  The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. Petri). The question is on the motion 
offered by the gentleman from New York (Mr. Gilman) that the House 
suspend the rules and agree to the concurrent resolution, H. Con. Res. 
292, as amended.
  The question was taken.
  Mr. GILMAN. Mr. Speaker, on that I demand the yeas and nays.
  The yeas and nays were ordered.
  The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursuant to clause 8 of rule XX and the 
Chair's prior announcement, further proceedings on this motion will be 
postponed.

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