[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 38 (Monday, March 14, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E476-E477]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 RECOGNIZING SUPPORT FOR TAIWAN'S PARTICIPATION IN THE UNITED NATIONS 
                FRAMEWORK CONVENTION FOR CLIMATE CHANGE

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. GERALD E. CONNOLLY

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, March 14, 2011

  Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and 
support Taiwan's bid for effective participation in the United Nations 
Framework Convention for Climate Change (UNFCCC).
  Taiwan has experienced rapid economic growth and industrialization, 
and its technological advancement has played a significant role in the 
global economy. While Taiwan is a major world economy with 23 million 
residents, it is only recognized as a non-governmental organization 
(NGO) under the name of ``Industrial Technology Research Institute'' 
(ITRI) by the UNFCCC. This NGO status only allows Taiwan to partake in 
UNFCCC side events, which is neither effective nor appropriate.
  This listing goes against the Convention's spirit and dampens the 
enthusiasm and expectations of the 23 million people of Taiwan. 
Taiwan's inability to participate in either the discussions over the 
post-Kyoto mechanism or the international carbon market has serious 
consequences affecting the welfare of the people and the development of 
Taiwan's industries.
  As a co-chair of the Congressional Caucus on Taiwan, I know the value 
of the bilateral relationship and hope to increase relations with 
Taiwan's cooperation and participation in the UNFCCC. I hope that the 
leadership of the UNFCCC will soon invite Taiwan to participate in an 
official capacity as the World Health Assembly has invited Taiwan to 
participate in its activities as an official observer in 2009 and 2010. 
Taiwan, since the inauguration of President Ma Ying-jeou in 2008, has 
been a responsible member of the global community and deserves to be 
invited to the activities of the UNFCCC and other international 
conventions and organizations.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in supporting Taiwan's 
participation in the United Nations Framework Convention for Climate 
Change.

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