[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 149 (2003), Part 19]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 26705]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                92ND NATIONAL DAY CELEBRATION OF TAIWAN

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. SHELLEY BERKLEY

                               of nevada

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, October 30, 2003

  Ms. BERKLEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 92nd National 
Day celebration of Taiwan. The Republic of China on Taiwan is a 
flourishing democracy of 23 million citizens who, like us, cherish 
their constitutional guarantees of freedom and human rights.
  Over the years, Taiwan has transformed itself from a one-party 
dictatorship to a vibrant multiparty democracy. Free and fair elections 
are held at all levels of government--elections in which nearly 70 
percent of Taiwan's citizens participate. The Taiwanese enjoy many 
freedoms including the right of assembly, expression and association, 
freedom of religion and freedom of the press. Human rights are well-
established and protected. Taiwan is committed to upholding the 
Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the International Covenant of 
Civil and Political Rights, and the Declaration and Action Program of 
the 1993 Vienna Conference on Human Rights.
  Taiwan has the world's 12th largest economy and is the United States 
8th largest trading partner. Its GDP of $386 billion is the 23rd 
largest in the world. However, perhaps more impressive is the fact that 
only 1 percent of its population live below the poverty line. Its 
thriving, market-based economy has enabled it to contribute generously 
to international aid efforts. In the first half of 2001, Taiwan 
provided nearly $700,000 through its International Cooperation and 
Development Program. The Republic of China-Central American Economic 
Development Fund has also enabled it to solidify cooperative 
relationships with Central American nations and reflects Taiwan's 
growing interest in that area.
  Last year, Secretary of State Colin Powell praised Taiwan, stating 
that it has become ``a resilient economy, a vibrant democracy and a 
generous contributor to the international community.'' He called it a 
``success story'' for Asia and the world--words with which I heartily 
agree.
  It is particularly important at this time to recognize and to thank 
nations that have been our unswerving friends for many years. We must 
also acknowledge those democracies that have stood as our allies. I 
take great pleasure in congratulating Taiwan on its National Day 
celebration and look forward to a continuation of our mutually 
beneficial relationship.

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