[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 148 (Wednesday, October 5, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1767-E1768]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           IN RECOGNITION OF TAIWAN'S CENTENNIAL NATIONAL DAY

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. DOUG LAMBORN

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, October 5, 2011

  Mr. LAMBORN. Mr. Speaker, on October 10th, the Republic of China will 
celebrate its Centennial National Day. The United States of America and 
Taiwan enjoy a close and strong relationship based on shared democratic 
values and free market economies.
  While welcome, the improved relations between the two sides does not 
eliminate the need for the United States to continue to help Taiwan's 
defense capabilities under the Taiwan Relations Act. Based on that act, 
the United States should continue to aid Taiwan in replacing its aging 
air force. According to the

[[Page E1768]]

most recent Department of Defense report on Taiwan's military power, 
China currently enjoys air superiority over Taiwan.
  In recent decades, we witnessed how Taiwan evolved from authoritarian 
rule to a vibrant democracy. Taiwan also has been a reliable political, 
economic and cultural ally of the United States. In recent years, 
Taiwan has been very strong in cooperating with us against global 
terrorism.
  It is also my view that we must continue to support Taiwan's 
participation in global affairs by supporting Taiwan and its 23,000,000 
people in becoming a member of the United Nations. An internationally 
visible Taiwan is a strong Taiwan.
  Today, Taiwan remains a major trading partner and friend. Our strong 
economic and cultural ties go back nearly a hundred years. We hope that 
this strong bond will continue for another 100 years and more. 
Congratulations to the people of the Republic of China (Taiwan) on 
their Centennial National Day.

                          ____________________