[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 65 (Thursday, April 30, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1039]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


      RECOGNIZING THE IMPROVED RELATIONS BETWEEN CHINA AND TAIWAN

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. G.K. BUTTERFIELD

                           of north carolina

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, April 30, 2009

  Mr. BUTTERFIELD. Madam Speaker, I rise in recognition of an 
announcement that Taiwan has been invite to participate as an observer 
at the annual meeting of the World Health Organization's governing body 
being held in Geneva next month.
  With the strong support of the United States, Taiwan has persistently 
campaigned, especially after the SARS outbreak in 2003, to rejoin the 
World Health Organization but China has consistently blocked efforts to 
join any international body as an independent political entity.
  So this marks a clear and important sign of improved relations 
between China and Taiwan, and I congratulate them on taking this 
important and meaningful step forward.
  Since Taiwanese President Ma took office on May 20, 2008, relations 
between the two sides of the Taiwan Straits have greatly improved, 
paving the way for the first direct flights between the straits in 60 
years, Chinese pandas being sent to Taiwan, substantially improved 
financial and business contact, and direct postal service and shipping.
  Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues will join me in applauding 
the efforts to improve relations and to encourage further cooperation.

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