[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 20 (Tuesday, January 30, 2018)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E119-E120]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 OPPOSING BEIJING'S UNILATERALLY MODIFIED USE OF CIVIL AVIATION FLIGHT 
 ROUTES IN TAIWAN STRAIT AND SUPPORTING OBSERVER STATUS FOR TAIWAN IN 
                     THE WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. STEVE KING

                                of iowa

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, January 30, 2018

  Mr. KING of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I would like to address two issues 
that are of great concern to the security and status of Taiwan, a long-
time great friend and ally of the United States. First, I am deeply 
concerned about reports that Beijing has modified the use of civil 
aviation flight routes in the Taiwan Strait without consultation with 
Taiwan authorities. Such unilateral actions are unacceptable to all 
that desire stability and peace in the region. Issues related to civil 
aviation and safety in the Taiwan Strait should be decided through 
dialogue between both sides. I encourage authorities in Beijing to 
engage those in Taipei in constructive dialogue, on the basis of 
dignity and respect.
  Second, I reiterate my support for Taiwan to regain its observer 
status in the World Health Organization (WHO). As you know, statehood 
is not a requirement for attendance at the World Health Assembly 
(WHA)--the decision-making body of the WHO--and so there is no 
legitimate reason to exclude Taiwan. The People's Republic of China 
(PRC) is but one nation in the community of many belonging to the WHO 
and WHA, and should not get to dictate participation to the rest of the 
body. It is simply not right to treat Taiwan in this way when they 
contribute so generously to the world, through its role in sectors such 
as healthcare and international humanitarian aid. Just this month, this 
House passed H.R. 3320, in support of Taiwan's observer status in the 
WHO, on suspension by voice vote. This vote is evidence of this body's 
strong support for Taiwan, which I share and endorse wholeheartedly.
  Mr. Speaker, I look forward to registering more votes to support and 
bolster Taiwan's security and status in the world. I am also confident 
that if we continue to enhance our bilateral relationship, this dynamic 
partnership that we've built together will continue to thrive in the 
future, and liberty will increase worldwide.

[[Page E120]]

  

                          ____________________