[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 42 (Tuesday, April 16, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E530]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 COMMEMORATING THE TAIWAN RELATIONS ACT

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. MARK STEVEN KIRK

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, April 16, 2002

  Mr. KIRK. Mr. Speaker, as we mark the 23rd anniversary of the Taiwan 
Relations Act today, I wish to comment on the special relationship 
between the United States and Taiwan.
  In 1978, President Jimmy Carter switched diplomatic recognition from 
the Republic of China to the People's Republic of China. To ensure 
Taiwan would continue to prosper and grow, Congress passed the Taiwan 
Relations Act in 1979. For the last twenty-three years, the Taiwan 
Relations Act has worked exceedingly well, providing Taiwan with the 
necessary security, while reminding the Chinese mainland not to use 
force against this flourishing democracy. On this 23rd anniversary, it 
is important to remind everyone that the United States stands behind 
the spirit of the Taiwan Relations Act.
  The United States continues to enjoy a longstanding and healthy 
relationship with Taiwan. The people of Taiwan have always stood 
shoulder to shoulder with us, and we should stand by them as well. I 
rise today in recognition of these continued positive relations between 
Taiwan and the United States.

                          ____________________