[Congressional Record Volume 146, Number 122 (Wednesday, October 4, 2000)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1675]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 NATIONAL DAY OF THE REPUBLIC OF CHINA

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. GARY L. ACKERMAN

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, October 4, 2000

  Mr. ACKERMAN. Mr. Speaker, as the Republic of China's 89th National 
Day approaches, I wish to congratulate President Chen Shui-bian and the 
people of Taiwan for their continuing economic success and political 
reforms.
  On this festive occasion, it is my hope that Taiwan and the Chinese 
mainland will soon begin a serious dialogue on reunification issues. 
The time is approaching for both sides to work out their differences 
and find a way to co-exist without antagonism. I am certain the people 
on Taiwan look forward to the day when they will be able to celebrate 
October 10th without the fear of a bellicose neighbor threatening not 
only their political freedom, but also their very lives.
  I also would like to take this opportunity to extend my heartfelt 
congratulations and best wishes to Ambassador C.J. Chen, who recently 
returned to Washington after several years in Taipei. A distinguished 
diplomat, Ambassador Chen is now Taiwan's chief representative in the 
United States. Ambassador Chen is an industrious and experienced 
diplomat who has worked diligently for many years to strengthen ties 
between the United States and the people of Taiwan.
  Mr. Speaker, Taiwan has become a beacon of democracy in an area of 
the world which has known authoritarianism for centuries. The upcoming 
celebration of National Day in the Republic of China is a timely 
reminder of the importance of our friendship and support for Taiwan.

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