[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 124 (Thursday, September 29, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1990]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         RECOGNIZING PRESIDENT CHEN SHUI-BIAN REPUBLIC OF CHINA

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. MICHAEL M. HONDA

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 29, 2005

  Mr. HONDA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the citizens of Taiwan 
and to recognize their democratically elected President Chen Shui-bian 
who has made a stopover in the United States en route to Central 
America. I trust that President Chen has had a good visit in the U.S.
  In the last five years, Taiwan has continued to impress the world as 
a prosperous island nation, free and democratic. Taiwan is truly 
committed to genuine democratization, as evidenced by the third direct 
presidential election of 2004.
  By working together, Taiwan and China will have the potential to make 
significant contributions to peace, security and prosperity in the 
entire Pacific Rim. I sincerely hope that a framework will soon be 
established for peaceful interactions between the two sides. It is 
everyone's dream that rapprochement between Taiwan and China be 
possible within the shortest period of time and to all parties' 
satisfaction.
  The people of the U.S. appreciate Taiwan's cooperation with the U.S. 
government in combating global terrorism and Taiwan's monetary 
contributions to the Twin Towers Fund and the Pentagon Memorial Fund. 
The relationship between Taiwan and the United States is strong and 
healthy. Ambassador David Tawei Lee is an effective bridge between the 
government of Taiwan and the government of the U.S.
  Mr. Speaker, we must always remember Taiwan's important role in 
maintaining peace and stability in the Pacific Rim. To have permanent 
peace in the region, the U.S. must do its part in urging Taiwan and 
China to continue peaceful dialogue and exchanges.

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