[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 134 (Friday, October 11, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1846]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 RECOGNIZING TAIWAN'S 91ST NATIONAL DAY

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. MAURICE D. HINCHEY

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, October 10, 2002

  Mr. HINCHEY. Mr. Speaker, as a longtime supporter and proud member of 
the Taiwan Caucus, I would like to recognize and congratulate Taiwan 
today on its 91st National Day. Taiwan has made many significant 
accomplishments during its brief history. Taiwan has been a true friend 
to the U.S., and one of our major trading partners.
  Taiwan is one of the largest export markets for many states, 
including New York. With a population of 23 million, the island of 
Taiwan is the world's 12th largest economy and seventh largest market 
for U.S. exports worldwide. Trade between Taiwan and the U.S. presently 
tops $51 billion. Most importantly, these economic ties have 
strengthened our bilateral relationship.
  Taiwan is a thriving democracy, supportive of political freedoms and 
human rights. Its constitution guarantees citizens freedom of assembly, 
expression and association, freedom of religion, and freedom of the 
press. Taiwan conducts free and fair elections, and is home to more 
than 90 political parties.
  I applaud Taiwan's commitment to upholding the Universal Declaration 
of Human Rights, the International Covenant of Civil and Political 
Rights, and the Declaration and Action Program of the 1993 Vienna 
Conference on Human Rights. I thank Taiwan for providing humanitarian 
assistance to Afghan refugees, and for its generous contributions to 
the International Community.
  The U.S. is firmly committed to the 1979 Taiwan Relations Act, and 
supports the details of the 2000 Taiwan Security Enhancement Act. We 
must continue to support Taiwan's defense by offering a robust arms 
sales package, and recognize Taiwan's need for operational training to 
effectively use U.S. weapons in case of need.
  I fully support Taiwan's efforts to join the World Health 
Organization. Last year, the House and Senate unanimously passed a bill 
authorizing the State Department to develop a plan to assist Taiwan in 
achieving observer status at the annual WHO Assembly. The President 
signed this important bill into law in May 2001.
  Last year, President Chen Shui-ban made a transit stop in the U.S. 
The dignified treatment Taiwan's democratic leader received was 
encouraging. I support lifting restrictions on high-level visits by 
officials from Taiwan to help promote a balanced understanding of 
issues on both sides of the Taiwan Strait.
  Taiwan's President Chen Shui-ban was one of the first world leaders 
to condemn the events of September 11th and to support U.S. efforts to 
combat terrorism. I am pleased to express my appreciation for Taiwan's 
gestures of goodwill on this day of celebration.

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