[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 56 (Thursday, April 2, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E884]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   COMMEMORATING THE 30TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE ENACTMENT OF THE TAIWAN 
                             RELATIONS ACT

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. DAVID WU

                               of oregon

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, April 2, 2009

  Mr. WU. Madam Speaker, I rise to commemorate the 30th anniversary of 
the enactment of the Taiwan Relations Act.
  For 60 years, the United States and Taiwan have fostered a close 
relationship that has been of mutual political, economic, cultural, and 
strategic benefit. When the United States shifted diplomatic relations 
from the Republic of China (Taiwan) to the People's Republic of China 
in January 1979, Congress moved quickly to pass the Taiwan Relations 
Act to ensure that the United States would have continued commercial, 
cultural, and other relations with Taiwan. With President Carter's 
signature on April 10, 1979, this important and lasting piece of 
legislation became law and codified the basis for relations between the 
United States and Taiwan. This year will mark the 30th anniversary of 
the enactment of the Taiwan Relations Act.
  Over these past 30 years, Taiwan has seen remarkable changes, from 
rapid economic growth to significant political transformation. During 
the late 1980s and early 1990s, Taiwan witnessed a peaceful transition 
of political power from a one-party state under martial law to a full-
fledged democracy and a multi-party political system. In March of last 
year, the people of Taiwan participated in Taiwan's fourth direct and 
democratic presidential election. The smooth and peaceful transition 
from one administration to another is a testament to Taiwan's continued 
dedication to the principles of democracy, human rights, and the rule 
of law.
  The Taiwan Relations Act has also been instrumental in maintaining 
peace, security, and stability across the Taiwan Strait. When the 
Taiwan Relations Act was signed into law, it affirmed that the United 
States' decision to establish diplomatic relations with the People's 
Republic of China was based on the expectation that the future of 
Taiwan would be determined by peaceful means. The Act also states that 
``the United States will make available to Taiwan such defense articles 
and defense services in such quantity as may be necessary to enable 
Taiwan to maintain a sufficient self-defense capability.'' I believe 
that, in accordance with the Taiwan Relations Act, the United States 
should continue to support the legitimate defense needs of Taiwan.
  It is my hope that the United States, Taiwan, and the People's 
Republic of China can continue to work together to promote enduring 
peace, stability, and prosperity in the Asia-Pacific region, especially 
across the Taiwan Strait. Let us recognize the past 30 years of the 
Taiwan Relations Act and maintain and strengthen U.S.-Taiwan relations 
for many years to come.

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