[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 149 (2003), Part 11]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 14341]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




      TRIBUTE TO THE PEOPLE OF TAIWAN AND PRESIDENT CHEN SHUI-BIAN

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. CHARLES B. RANGEL

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 10, 2003

  Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, on May 20, the people of Taiwan celebrated 
the third anniversary of the ascent of Chen Shui-bian to the Presidency 
of Taiwan. In recognition of this anniversary, I would like to 
congratulate both the people of Taiwan and President Chen upon the 
achievement of this third anniversary and make a few observations with 
regard to this auspicious occasion, as well as the long-standing 
friendship that exists between the United States and Taiwan.
  With regard to President Chen, I can only say that in his three years 
as leader of Taiwan have been exemplary. President Chen has, continues 
and shall hopefully continue to receive widespread praise around the 
world for his determined commitment and unswerving dedication to 
continued democratization, economic reform and basic recognition of 
human rights.
  In his conduct and comments toward the People's Republic of China, 
President Chen has promised that Taiwan would not seek independence as 
long as the People's Republic would refrain from using force against 
Taiwan. Moreover, he has initiated solid measures that are aimed at 
reducing tensions in the Taiwan Straits so that the freedom of 
navigation in the Straits can be maintained.
  President Chen has further demonstrated his leadership in bringing 
his diplomatic skills to the fore in gaining Taiwan entrance to the 
World Trade Organization. In this regard, I can only hope and wish for 
President Chen's continued diplomatic success in making Taiwan more 
present in the global community of nations. Two such measures of 
continued success would rest in gaining Taiwan access and entry to both 
the World Health Organization and the International Civil Aviation 
Organization.
  Mr. Speaker, as President Chen celebrates the third anniversary of 
his Presidency, I would only say that America congratulates and salutes 
him upon the many successes and achievements of his administration to 
date. And, that we wish him continued and further success in the 
future.

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