[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 38 (Wednesday, April 10, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E488]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        THE TAIWAN RELATIONS ACT

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. STEVEN R. ROTHMAN

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, April 10, 2002

  Mr. ROTHMAN. Mr. Speaker, on April 10, 1979, President Jimmy Carter 
signed into law the Taiwan Relations Act, which has enabled Taiwan to 
prosper and grow to become an ally of the United States. In the last 
two decades, Taiwan has had many achievements. The economy of Taiwan 
has flourished to the point where the country is regarded as an 
economic superpower. Politically, Taiwan has transformed into an open, 
multi-party democracy, home to more than 93 political parties, and a 
nation that respects the human and civil rights of its citizens. There 
are many reasons for Taiwan's phenomenal success, but one reason is the 
enactment of the Taiwan Relations Act.
  Over twenty years ago, the United States signaled to the world that 
we recognize the legitimate rights and aspirations of the people of 
Taiwan, and over twenty years ago, the United States created a 
mechanism to preserve and protect the freedom of the Taiwanese people. 
The Taiwan Relations Act worked, and has been instrumental in 
preserving peace, security, and stability in the Taiwan Strait since 
its enactment in 1979.
  Taiwan is a model for democratic transformation that I hope the 
People's Republic of China will one day emulate, not threaten. I join 
the Taiwanese people in seeking a peaceful resolution to the tensions 
between Taiwan and the People's Republic of China. The United States 
will continue to be an ally of the Taiwanese and assist in maintaining 
the security and stability of Taiwan. We must also help Taiwan to 
participate in international activities and organizations such as the 
World Health Organization, the International Civil Aviation 
Organization, and the United Nations. I look forward to broadening and 
deepening our friendship with Taiwan for the mutual benefit of the 
people of both the United States and Taiwan.

                          ____________________