[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 146 (Monday, October 3, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1735]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                CONGRATULATING TAIWAN ON ITS CENTENNIAL

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. TIM RYAN

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                        Monday, October 3, 2011

  Mr. RYAN of Ohio. Mr. Speaker, on the occasion of its Centennial 
National Day on October 10, 2011, I wish to extend to the Republic of 
China (Taiwan) my sincerest congratulations and best wishes.
  Taiwan has been a staunch ally of the United States and demonstrates 
that friendship in myriad ways, ranging from the healthy trade 
relationship we share to education and even popular culture. For 
example, Taiwan regularly sends its agricultural procurement mission to 
purchase U.S. products. Taiwan's mission, currently visiting the United 
States, plans to purchase more than $5.6 billion in wheat, corn, 
soybean and other agricultural products. For its defense needs, Taiwan 
seeks to purchase advanced weapons from us, including F-16s fighters 
and possibly submarines in the future. Further, our Taiwanese friends 
have long appreciated many facets of U.S. culture, to include our 
system of education, our democratic values and even our regional 
culinary traditions. We return that admiration in kind and are proud to 
share so many cultural and political values with the people of Taiwan.
  The Republic of China is a shining example of a democratic, open 
society in the region. The advancements and development achieved over 
the last century are laudable and, for these reasons, I offer heartfelt 
congratulations on this very special occasion.

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