[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 18 (Monday, February 1, 2016)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E79]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 CONGRATULATING DR. TSAI ING-WEN ON HER ELECTION AS PRESIDENT OF TAIWAN

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                          HON. KENNY MARCHANT

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                        Monday, February 1, 2016

  Mr. MARCHANT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Dr. Tsai Ing-
wen on her victory in the Taiwanese presidential election held on 
January 16, 2016. President-elect Tsai is scheduled to take office on 
May 20 of this year, and will be the first woman president of Taiwan. I 
further congratulate the vice president-elect, Dr. Chen Chien-jen, as 
well as the people of Taiwan for this historic vote that signifies so 
much for the continuing strength of democracy in Taiwan.
  On this occasion. I would encourage my colleagues to join me in 
assuring President-elect Tsai and the people of Taiwan of our 
commitment to the friendship between our two countries. We are bound by 
the values and principles we share; and the peaceful and free election 
on January 16 once again demonstrates that Taiwan's robust democracy is 
an example to the rest of the region. The free and democratic system 
that has been established over the decades is a testament to the 
commendable dedication and determination of a free Taiwanese people. 
Their support for human rights is a beacon, and their leaders should be 
encouraged as they work to keep it shining.
  Dr. Tsai's election is additionally an opportunity to reaffirm the 
importance of the Taiwan Relations Act as the cornerstone of the 
relationship between the U.S. and Taiwan. I urge my colleagues to 
remain committed to the security of Taiwan, as well as our economic and 
social relationship, and look forward to our two countries' continuing 
to work together on issues of common interest.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating 
President-elect Tsai and the people of Taiwan, and in wishing them the 
best in the new administration.

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