[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 68 (Thursday, May 17, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E847]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         ARRIVAL IN U.S. OF TAIWANESE PRESIDENT CHEN SHUI-BIAN

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. TOM LANTOS

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 17, 2001

  Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, as Republic of China President Chen Shui-
bian reaches his first anniversary in office, I would like to commend 
him for his successful leadership and steadiness of purpose. President 
Chen has expertly handled cross-strait relations due in part to his 
emphasis on the formation of mutual trust between Taipei and Beijing 
through economic and cultural integration. President Chen recently 
expressed his vision for a lasting peace with the mainland by noting 
the importance of ensuring channels of communication. ``I understand 
that only through resumption of constructive cross-strait dialogue and 
normalization of bilateral relations can permanent regional peace be 
ensured.''
  President Chen's leadership within the Republic of China exemplifies 
a record of which he should be proud. He presides over a democracy 
characterized by free and fair elections, a free press, and an 
unquestioned respect for human rights and the rule of law. Yet 
President Chen's capacity to guide economic success is as strong as his 
commitment to democratic values. The 5.25% growth forecast for the ROC 
economy in 2001 is higher than that of the U.S., Japan, Germany, or the 
U.K., and the ROC enjoys a lower level of unemployment than each one of 
the aforementioned economic powerhouses.
  I am delighted that President Chen will have the opportunity to make 
two transit stops in the U.S. and to meet with Members of Congress 
during his upcoming visit to the Americas. Secretary Powell's 
spokesperson noted that such meetings ``would be a good thing,'' and I 
could not agree more. This will be an important visit for President 
Chen and for the U.S.--the first time a Taiwanese leader has been 
permitted to stopover in New York. I hope President Chen's transit 
visit brings fruitful discussions with my colleagues as well as a 
chance to enjoy the Texas steakhouse, baseball game, and New York 
museum on his agenda. Most importantly, I hope President Chen's transit 
visit signals the strong ties and friendship between the U.S. and the 
Republic of China.

                          ____________________