[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 115 (Thursday, September 6, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1597-E1598]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         SUPPORT OF TAIWAN'S BID TO RE-ENTER THE UNITED NATIONS

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. PETER T. KING

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 6, 2001

  Mr. KING. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of Taiwan's bid to re-
enter the United Nations and the right of its 23 million citizens to 
have their voices heard in that world body.
  Taiwan is an economic powerhouse--consistently ranking among the 
world's top economies over many years. Its GNP and population are 
larger than three quarters of the existing member countries of the UN. 
Taiwan holds approximately $100 billion in foreign exchange reserves. 
Significantly, it is the seventh largest trading partner to the United 
States.
  Taiwan has used its economic resources to assist developing countries 
and contribute to international organizations. Taiwan sent over 10,000 
experts to train technicians in developing countries and has provided 
aid to countries in need including a generous aid package to Kosovo. It 
understands the meaning of responsibility among the community of 
nations and is prepared and able to actively support the endeavors of 
the United Nations.

[[Page E1598]]

  Taiwan is an openly democratic society. Free and fair elections are 
held at all levels of government. Two years ago, Chen Shui-bian was the 
first President from the opposition party to be elected as Taiwan's 
president. In addition, Taiwan's constitution guarantees its citizens 
freedom of assembly, expression and association, freedom of religion 
and freedom of the press.
  President Chen has been a bulwark of support for human rights. He has 
committed Taiwan to upholding the Universal Declaration of Human 
Rights, the International Covenant of Civil and Political Rights, and 
the Declaration and Action Program of the 1993 Vienna Conference on 
Human Rights.
  Since his election, President Chen has continued to seek renewed 
political and commercial dialogue with the Chinese mainland. Taiwan 
believes that its membership in the United Nations would have a 
positive effect on peace and stability in the region. This belief is 
supported by such examples as East and West Germany which were both 
members of the UN and by the membership of both North and South Korea 
which have been seeking an improved relationship.
  A number of countries have asked the United Nations to reconsider 
Taiwan for UN membership. Both Houses of the U.S. Congress, by large 
margins, have endorsed Taiwan's desire for participation in the United 
Nations. The time has come for Taiwan to officially enter the community 
of nations.

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