[Congressional Record Volume 161, Number 56 (Friday, April 17, 2015)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E528]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      CELEBRATING THE 36TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE TAIWAN RELATIONS ACT

                                  _____
                                 

                             HON. TED LIEU

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, April 17, 2015

  Mr. TED LIEU of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise to note that on April 
10--while Congress was out of session--we celebrated the 36th 
anniversary of the enactment of the Taiwan Relations Act (TRA). As a 
Taiwan-born American immigrant, I take pride in this landmark piece of 
legislation, which has provided Taiwan with a great deal of stability 
and support as it transformed itself into a vibrant democracy, advanced 
economy and civil society.
  The TRA was intended by Congress to endure, continuing the important 
relationship between close friends and allies. I am heartened by the 
strengthening of ties that have taken place in recent years, from 
Taiwan's admission to the U.S. Visa Waiver Program in 2012, the first 
visit of a Cabinet-level official since the Clinton Administration in 
2014, and Taiwan's shift from our 12th-largest trading partner in 2013 
to our 10th-largest in 2014.
  As Los Angeles County's fourth largest trading partner, Taiwan has a 
unique relationship with my district. With the largest Taiwanese 
population in the country, it is no coincidence that Los Angeles County 
is often seen as the international gateway between the United States 
and Taiwan.
  Taiwan has much to offer the international community. It has proven a 
responsible global citizen by assisting international organizations 
during humanitarian crises and disasters, from its efforts following 
the 2011 Toohoku earthquake and tsunami to its contribution of 100,000 
sets of Personal Protective Equipment to West Africa last year for use 
in the fight against Ebola. These acts are emblematic of a people with 
whom we share many values.
  On this occasion of the 36th anniversary of the Taiwan Relations Act, 
I ask my colleagues to join me in offering our greetings and best 
wishes to the people and leaders of Taiwan.