[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 127 (Wednesday, September 19, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1563]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                          TAIWAN NATIONAL DAY

                                 ______
                                 

                      HON. SANFORD D. BISHOP, JR.

                               of georgia

                    in the house of representatives

                     Wednesday, September 19, 2012

  Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Taiwan on 
its 101st National Day, which will occur on October 10th, 2012. As a 
member of the Taiwan Caucus, I recognize the importance of continuing 
to cultivate a strong relationship between the United States and 
Taiwan.
  The United States and Taiwan share a strong commitment to freedom. As 
a beacon of democracy for Southeast Asia and the rest of the world, 
Taiwan and its 23 million people enjoy self-governance, free elections, 
and the protection of individual rights. The policies pursued by 
President Ma Ying-jeou have made Taiwan a strong ally to the United 
States in these turbulent times.
  Taiwan also is a strong business partner for the United States. It is 
our tenth largest trading partner and the sixth largest market for 
United States agriculture exports. Georgia and Taiwan also have strong 
business ties. Taiwan is Georgia's thirteenth largest export market, 
grossing $68 million in profit for Georgia last year alone. Taiwan 
imports chemicals, automobiles, and, of course, Coca-Colas. Taiwan is 
also a leading innovator and producer of information technology and 
knowledge-based industries.
  The United States has supported Taiwan's transformation to a vibrant 
democracy. It should be congratulated for its 101 years of freedom and 
prosperity. It continues to be a model of democracy for Southeast Asia 
and countries all over the globe.
  Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me today in congratulating 
Taiwan on its 101st National Day. I am confident that the friendship 
and close relationship that has been cultivated by the United States 
and Taiwan will continue for many years to come.

                          ____________________