[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 70 (Wednesday, May 16, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E817]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   CONGRATULATING TAIWAN'S PRESIDENT MA YING-JEOU ON HIS RE-ELECTION

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. DAN BURTON

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, May 16, 2012

  Mr. BURTON of Indiana. Mr. Speaker, I rise to join my colleagues in 
congratulating President Ma Ying-jeou for winning this year's 
presidential election in Taiwan, the Republic of China, ROC. He will be 
officially inaugurated as the fifth freely elected president of the 
Republic of China on May 20, reminding the world once again that Taiwan 
is a nation to be admired for her unwavering commitment to democracy 
and freedom.
  It has been my joy to watch the success of the Taiwanese people in 
overcoming great obstacles and I know that President Ma will continue 
his record of achievement in this, his second term. We admire Taiwan's 
flourishing market economy and vibrant democracy. Their successes are 
directly attributable to the wisdom and industry of the people of 
Taiwan. Today nearly everyone in Taiwan is middle class and enjoys good 
nutrition, good health, excellent schools, low crime rates and safe 
neighborhoods. Politically, people are free to voice their opinions. 
Press freedom and human rights are guaranteed by the ROC's 
Constitution.
  It is my hope that many countries in Asia will follow the example of 
this great island as a model of democracy and freedom. My colleagues 
and I greatly admire the accomplishments that have taken place since 
the end of martial law and the establishment of democracy in the 
1980's. I wish the Taiwanese the best in the challenges ahead, 
particularly in handling cross-strait relations. I hope all of my 
colleagues here in the House of Representatives will be continually 
supportive as the Taiwanese pursue a peaceful solution to the China 
issue. I believe that peace and stability within the Taiwan Strait are 
in the best interest of the global community.
  I have always cherished Taiwan's close friendship with the United 
States and I admire Taiwan's recent economic and democratic 
achievements. We look forward to working with the government and people 
of Taiwan in further strengthening and clarifying the commercial, 
cultural and other relations between the United States and Taiwan, 
particularly Taiwan's defense needs and Taiwan's meaningful 
participation in international organizations.
  Again, congratulations, President Ma.

                          ____________________