[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 147 (Wednesday, September 28, 2016)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1392]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         TAIWAN'S NATIONAL DAY

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. LUKE MESSER

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                     Wednesday, September 28, 2016

  Mr. MESSER. Mr. Speaker, October 10, 2016 is Taiwan's National Day, 
marking the founding of the Republic of China 105 years ago. I rise 
today to congratulate the people of Taiwan on this important occasion.
  I've had the opportunity to visit Taiwan in the past. The country's 
evolution into a free society that espouses the values of free 
elections, human rights, free markets, and the rule of law is a 
significant one in which the United States has played an important 
role. Taiwan remains a great friend and strategic ally to the United 
States.
  Beginning with passage of the Taiwan Relations Act, Congress has been 
at the forefront of bilateral relations with the island nation, playing 
a key part in ensuring Taiwan's military needs are addressed and 
assisting Taiwan with its democratic and economic development.
  That cooperation continues today. Congress has played a critical role 
in assisting Taiwan's participation in the World Health Assembly and 
facilitating its entrance into the Visa Waiver Program. Most recently, 
through the assistance of the United States, Taiwan was granted 
observer status in Interpol.
  As a member of the Asia Pacific Economic Forum and World Trade 
Organization, Taiwan is an important trading partner and export market 
for the United States in almost every major sector. It is our ninth 
largest trading partner overall, and the sixth largest international 
market for U.S. agricultural products. Taiwan has been a full 
participant in trade negotiations and initiatives, devoting a great 
amount of effort to multilateral trade and investment activities, 
working to ensure that any trade agreements are both free and fair.
  Given its economic strength and dedication to global trade and 
investment, Taiwan should be given fair and equal treatment when 
considering future U.S. partnerships and trade deals. As we continue to 
discuss the merits of a Trans-Pacific Partnership, we must carefully 
examine the implications of excluding countries that are not only 
robust trading partners, but critical geopolitical allies as well. It 
is my hope that the U.S. Government thoughtfully consider all these 
relevant factors and allow them to inform our path forward in an 
evolving landscape of international trade.
  I look forward to the continued collaboration with Taiwan in the 
months and years ahead as we continue to enhance our bilateral 
security, economic, and trade relations.

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