[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 42 (Thursday, March 13, 2014)]
[Senate]
[Page S1646]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                          TAIWAN RELATIONS ACT

  Mr. JOHNSON of South Dakota. Madam President, I wish to speak about 
U.S.-Taiwan relations. In just a few weeks, on April 10, 2014, we will 
recognize the 35th anniversary of the enactment of the Taiwan Relations 
Act, TRA. This important legislation has served as the legal basis for 
our relations with Taiwan and has been critical in defining our 
diplomatic, economic, and strategic relationship.
  Although I was not yet a Member of Congress in 1979 when this 
legislation was passed, I have had the pleasure over the past 28 years 
to be active in U.S.-Taiwan matters and have seen the benefits of the 
TRA.
  Over the past several decades we have seen our relationship with 
Taiwan grow. Taiwan's innovative and expanding economy has led to 
significant trade opportunities for both of our countries. Particularly 
in the area of agriculture--which is South Dakota's No. 1 industry--
Taiwan has grown to be a key trading partner, representing one of the 
most significant consumers of South Dakota corn, soybeans, and wheat. 
Our trade relationship has only strengthened over the years, and I am 
hopeful that market opportunities will continue to expand.
  While we mark this important milestone in U.S.-Taiwan relations, I 
would also like to say farewell to Representative King Pu-tsung, 
Taiwan's chief envoy to the United States. Ambassador King was recently 
appointed to be the Secretary-General of the Republic of China 
(Taiwan)'s National Security Council, a position equivalent to our 
National Security Advisor to the President. I congratulate him on this 
new opportunity and trust that in his new role we will continue to work 
together to further strengthen close ties between our two countries.
  The people of Taiwan have proven to be true friends of the United 
States, and I look forward to continuing this friendship well into the 
future.

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