[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 116 (Monday, September 10, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1616]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     TAIWAN AND THE UNITED NATIONS

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. MAURICE D. HINCHEY

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, September 10, 2001

  Mr. HINCHEY. Mr. Speaker, as the United Nations General Assembly 
prepares to convene on September 11, I believe it is appropriate to 
recognize the achievements of Taiwan. Over the past several years, 
Taiwan has established itself as a world economic power and a stable 
political presence in Asia. Since the passage of the Taiwan Relations 
Act in 1979, the United States and Taiwan have developed a strong 
friendship and understanding of each other.
  Most importantly, Taiwan is a thriving, multi-party democracy. Its 
leaders have successfully confronted the most difficult moment emerging 
democracies face: turning over offices to others when their own party 
loses. They have allowed open competition for office, and encouraged 
public discussion on the full range of issues that face Taiwan. It is 
clear that the people of Taiwan have the right to determine their 
nation's future.
  Unfortunately, at a time when Taiwan's example and its assistance 
could be most beneficial to the world community, it continues to be 
isolated from that community. Restoration of its membership to the 
United Nations would end that isolation. As new democracies emerge, I 
am convinced that the world could greatly benefit from the counsel of a 
nation that has recently transformed itself into a democracy.

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