[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 134 (Friday, October 11, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1828-E1829]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               RECOGNIZING THE REPUBLIC OF CHINA (TAIWAN)

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. PETE SESSIONS

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, October 10, 2002

  Mr. SESSIONS. Mr. Speaker, this October 10th marks the 91st National 
Day of the Republic of China (Taiwan). On this important occasion, I 
wish to congratulate the leaders and the people of Taiwan.
  Taiwan and the United States have a very productive relationship 
despite the lack of official relations. Taiwan has always been 
supportive of U.S. policies and actions. Last year, Taiwan was one of 
the first countries to come to our aid in our campaign against 
worldwide terrorism.
  Taiwan's leaders have pledged whatever assistance we need, such as 
intelligence gathering, in our continuing war against terrorists. Apart 
from Taiwan's support of us in combating terrorism, Taiwan maintains 
close cooperation with us in many areas such as economics, politics, 
immigration, culture and education, science and technology, human 
rights, and environmental protection.
  On the occasion of ROC's National Day, I urge all Americans to 
continue to lend their support to Taiwan.
  America must continue to help Taiwan and the PRC resume dialogue, 
continue to supply Taiwan with the means to defend themselves, and ease 
unnecessary restrictions we have imposed upon Taiwan's representative 
offices in the United States and our ``unofficial'' official offices in 
Taiwan.
  I am certain that relations between America and Taiwan will continue 
to grow. Taiwan is a

[[Page E1829]]

free, democratic, and open society and shares the same ideals as we do.
  On a foundation of mutual confidence and mutual benefit, bilateral 
relations between the United States and Taiwan will continue to grow.

                          ____________________