[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 76 (Monday, May 18, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1183]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     CELEBRATING TAIWAN'S PRESIDENT MA YING-JEOU FIRST ANNIVERSARY

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                          HON. EMANUEL CLEAVER

                              of missouri

                    in the house of representatives

                          Monday, May 18, 2009

  Mr. CLEAVER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to convey my support for the 
Taiwanese president, Ma Ying-jeou, his many successes, and the guiding 
principles of his country. President Ying-jeou is to be commended for 
championing strengthened ties between Taiwan and the People's Republic 
of China, since assuming office on May 20, 2008.
  It is with tremendous pride that we will collaborate with our long-
time friend and ally, the Republic of China (Taiwan), at the upcoming 
World Health Assembly (WHA) later this month in Geneva, Switzerland. 
This is the first time since 1972 that Taiwan has been afforded 
international standing among sovereign nations at a United Nations 
event. This Congress most recently honored the U.S.-Taiwan bilateral 
relationship with the passage of H. Con. Res. 55, recognizing the 30th 
anniversary of the Taiwan Relations Act, the cornerstone of U.S.-Taiwan 
relations. The passage of this Act illustrates the commitment and 
friendship between our two great nations. The strong leadership and 
cooperation of President Obama and President Ma Ying-jeou will 
unquestionably help strengthen our nations' unity.
  Charged with the task of promoting global public health, the work of 
the WHA assumes great significance particularly in the midst of H1N1, 
HIV/AIDS, SARS, and avian flu threats. We welcome the meaningful 
cooperation of world-wide partners to make for safe and sensible 
solutions amidst continued dangers that jeopardize public health. I am 
confident of Taiwan's intention and ability to help combat these 
threats and help meet the ever-changing demands and needs of its people 
and the global community at large.
  I urge my colleagues of the 111th Congress to please join me in 
extending continued best wishes to President Ma Ying-jeou on his first 
anniversary in office on May 20, 2009.

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