[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 134 (Tuesday, October 9, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1836]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     IN HONOR OF THE NATIONAL DAY OF THE REPUBLIC OF CHINA ON TAIWAN

                                 ______
                                 

                       HON. ENI F.H. FALEOMAVAEGA

                           of american samoa

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, October 9, 2001

  Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, on the auspicious occasion of the 
National Day of the Republic of China (ROC)--October 10th, 2001 --1 
send my warmest greetings, congratulations and best wishes to President 
Chen Shui-bian, the Honorable C.J. Chen, ROC Representative to the 
United States, and the good people of Taiwan.
  I also wish to acknowledge and thank President Chen, Representative 
Chen and the leaders of Taiwan for their strong support of the United 
States in the aftermath of the September 11th terrorist attacks on 
America. As our Nation struggled to recover from the horrific tragedy, 
I would note Taiwan was one of the first governments to declare 
unequivocal support for and cooperation with the United States to 
combat terrorism worldwide.
  President Chen has repeatedly affirmed Taiwan's strong belief that 
the United States is on the right course in going after terrorists and 
extremists worldwide, and Taiwan has offered assistance in this 
mission. Terrorism knows no national boundaries and terrorists seek to 
destroy freedom and our democratic way of life. Standing shoulder to 
shoulder as fellow democracies, Taiwan has mourned with America, shared 
the pain of our Nation, and joined in partnership to fight terrorism.
  Mr. Speaker, the quick response of Taiwan is not surprising, as the 
Republic of China is a true democracy--a democracy that cherishes, 
protects and respects all of the rights of her citizens. The success of 
Taiwan's democracy is further reflected in her prosperity where, 
despite having only 23 million people, Taiwan has developed into one of 
the most important and robust economies in the world.
  As the United States leads the global fight to eradicate terrorism, 
Mr. Speaker, let us be thankful for good friends and allies such as 
Taiwan. In this regard, Representative C.J. Chen has done an excellent 
and superb job on Capitol Hill and Washington in representing Taiwan 
and furthering relations between our governments.
  Mr. Speaker, on October 10th, the National Day marking the birth of 
the Republic of China, I ask our colleagues and all Americans to join 
me in saluting and honoring the strong, vibrant and impressive 
democracy that is Taiwan today.