[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 135 (Wednesday, October 10, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1845]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               CELEBRATING THE REPUBLIC OF CHINA (TAIWAN)

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. ROBERT WEXLER

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, October 10, 2001

  Mr. WEXLER. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor and privilege for me to join 
President Chen Shui-bian and the people of the Republic of China in 
celebrating National Day on October 10, 2001. This important occasion 
highlights the growth and emergence of Taiwan's democracy as well as 
its dynamic economy.
  Over the past fifty years, Taiwan has undergone tremendous political, 
economic and social changes. As the first democracy in thousands of 
years of Chinese history, Taiwan has become a model for other emerging 
democracies around the world to emulate. Taiwan has also emerged as an 
economic powerhouse. Despite Taiwan's small size and lack of physical 
resources it has become the world's 17th largest economy, 15th largest 
trading nation, 8th largest investor and 3rd largest holder of foreign 
exchange. Taiwan plays an essential role in the global economy and is a 
major economic partner of the United States. Over the past decade, a 
robust bilateral trade relationship between Taiwan and the United 
States has mutually benefitted both nations. Last year, bilateral trade 
between our two nations topped $64.8 billion and it continues to grow.
  I would like to congratulate President Chen Shui-bian who has 
passionately advocated Taiwan's strong commitment to democracy, human 
rights, and increased global economic cooperation. Please know that I 
join many of my colleagues in the United States Congress in supporting 
your government effort to seek readmission to the United Nations and 
other international organizations. I strongly believe that Taiwan 
deserves a seat in all international fora and a prominent place on the 
world stage.
  I also want to thank President Chen and the people of Taiwan who have 
heeded President Bush's call to join the international community in a 
counter-terrorism coalition following the September 11, 2001, attacks 
on the United States. President Chen's government has graciously 
pledged all of Taiwan's resources in helping the United States fight 
the terrible scourge of terrorism. President Chen's pledge of 
unequivocal support for our nation during these difficult times is a 
testament to the historically close relationship between the United 
States and Taiwan.
  Again, I want to wish the people and government of Taiwan the very 
best as they celebrate Taiwan's National Day.

                          ____________________