[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 150 (2004), Part 17]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages 23419-23420]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




        CONGRATULATING TAIWAN ON THEIR NATIONAL DAY OCTOBER 10TH

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. MICHAEL M. HONDA

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, October 7, 2004

  Mr. HONDA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the anniversary of 
Taiwan's independence, a day more commonly referred to as Double 10 Day 
as it falls on October 10. Double 10 Day is a joyous and important day 
for the Taiwanese people, and I am proud to join the people of Taiwan 
and President Chen Shui-bian in commemorating the Chinese people's 
struggle for independence.
  Double 10 Day offers those of us in Congress an opportunity to 
recognize Taiwan's friendship and unwavering alliance with the

[[Page 23420]]

United States. This strong alliance is predicated in part on shared 
values. In fact, Taiwan has nurtured a stable democracy and vibrant 
economy that encourages the entrepreneurial spirit.
  Through its trading relationships, Taiwan has become an economic 
engine in East Asia and reliable trading partner for the United States. 
Taiwan is our nation's 8th largest trading partner, underscoring the 
economic ties so critical to our two nations. In 2003 alone, two-way 
trade between the United States and Taiwan totaled $49 billion, and for 
the past 25 years the living standards have steadily risen for the 
people of Taiwan.
  Taiwan's strong relationship with the United States will continue to 
flourish and grow in the years ahead. In the meantime, I wish to 
welcome Taiwan ambassador Dr. David Lee to Washington. Dr. Lee has 
recently replaced former ambassador C.J. Chen, who was an excellent 
statesman and will be missed by his friends here in Washington, DC. I 
am confident that Dr. Lee will represent Taiwan well and I look forward 
to working with him and his very able staff.
  Again, Mr. Speaker, I extend my congratulations and best wishes to 
the people of Taiwan on the occasion of their National Day this October 
10.

                          ____________________