[Congressional Record Volume 163, Number 160 (Thursday, October 5, 2017)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1334]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             A HAPPY DOUBLE TEN DAY TO THE PEOPLE OF TAIWAN

                                  _____
                                 

                             HON. STEVE KING

                                 of iowa

                     in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, October 5, 2017

   Mr. KING of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, Tuesday, October 10th is Taiwan's 
National Day--also known as Double Ten Day. I would like to take this 
opportunity now to offer my early best wishes to the people of Taiwan.
   As my colleagues are aware, Taiwan is a close friend, as well as 
security and trade partner of the United States. Accordingly, the 
United States has declared its support for Taiwan's meaningful 
participation in international organizations where its membership is 
not possible. In my home state of Iowa, we are enthusiastic to build on 
our already strong trade ties. In 2016, Iowa's exports to Taiwan 
reached $153.87 million, making Taiwan Iowa's 5th largest export market 
in Asia.
   Iowa and every state in the nation would benefit from the signing of 
a free trade agreement between Taiwan and the U.S., which would 
eliminate tariffs on most products and increase Taiwanese demand and 
Iowa exports. Though a small country with a population of 23 million, 
Taiwan has the potential to become a strong export market for Iowa and 
the U.S. Taiwan is a major importer of U.S. agriculture goods. Other 
sectors such as Iowa's strong wind energy sector have potential for 
bilateral cooperation as well.
   Mr. Speaker, again, I wish the people of Taiwan a Happy Double Ten 
Day. And I take this opportunity to echo the words of Barry Goldwater 
when he said, ``I have great affection for the Chinese people, their 
culture, their skills, and their potential.''

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