[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 147 (Wednesday, September 28, 2016)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1389]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      CELEBRATING TAIWAN'S TEN TEN

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. MATT SALMON

                               of arizona

                    in the house of representatives

                     Wednesday, September 28, 2016

  Mr. SALMON. Mr. Speaker, on October 10, 2016, Taiwan celebrates the 
National Day of the Republic of China, more commonly known as double-
ten day. I wish all Taiwanese a safe and happy National Day, and hope 
for many more to come. I lived in Taiwan for two years while serving a 
church mission, and quickly grew to love the people of Taiwan, their 
way of life, democratic values, and open-market principles. Taiwan has 
left a lasting impression on me and I have celebrated and worked to 
protect the U.S.-Taiwan relationship ever since.
   In Congress, I've striven to ensure that Taiwan's close friendship 
and faithfulness as a global citizen is never forgotten. Just this 
year, Taiwan reminded the world once again that a vibrant democracy can 
thrive in the region with the peaceful election of a new leader through 
genuinely free and fair elections. I congratulate President Tsai once 
again and wish her well in leading her people.
   Congress has also acted to include Taiwan in the international 
community and prevent marginalization efforts by China. As the world 
grows smaller and more interconnected, it is not only unreasonable that 
Taiwan is not at the table, it is dangerous. For that reason, I want to 
express my profound disappointment that the United Nations failed to 
include Taiwan in the International Civil Aviation Organization 
Assembly this year. As we all know, Taiwan airports are among the 
busiest in the world, and pressure from China should not lead to 
putting passenger safety at risk. I urge the UN to include Taiwan as a 
participant in all future ICAO assemblies; in addition to all other 
international organizations as they would be a valuable addition to 
addressing our many global challenges.
   Congress and the United States stand firm in our commitment to 
Taiwan, and will continue to do so. I look forward to celebrating 
another double-ten day along with my friends in Taiwan this year and in 
the years to come.

                          ____________________