[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 128 (Thursday, September 20, 2012)]
[Senate]
[Page S6533]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   RECOGNIZING TAIWAN'S NATIONAL DAY

  Mr. JOHNSON of South Dakota. Mr. President, I rise today to recognize 
Taiwan as their National Day of Celebration, October 10, 2012, 
approaches. This day commemorates the end of imperial rule in China.
  Since that day more than 100 years ago, Taiwan has successfully 
transitioned to a democracy. Taiwan has peacefully transferred power 
between political parties and earlier this year held another free and 
fair Presidential election. As we know from our own American history 
and have seen in countries around the world this past year, achieving a 
democracy is no easy feat, and I commend all those who have helped 
Taiwan reach this point.
  The United States and Taiwan continue to enjoy a close friendship, 
and I hope my colleagues will join me in congratulating the people of 
Taiwan on the 101st anniversary of their National Day.
  I also would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Ambassador 
Jason Yuan, Representative of the ROC, Taiwan, to the United States, on 
his new post as Secretary-General of the National Security Council of 
Taiwan. I cherish the friendship with Ambassador Yuan and wish 
Ambassador and Madame Yuan the very best of luck in the future.

                          ____________________