[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 150 (2004), Part 17]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 23465]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




      HONORING THE NATIONAL DAY OF THE REPUBLIC OF CHINA ON TAIWAN

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. TERRY EVERETT

                               of alabama

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, October 8, 2004

  Mr. EVERETT. Mr. Speaker, on October 10, the people of the Republic 
of China on Taiwan celebrate their national day. I join with my 
colleagues here in the House in congratulating them on this solemn and 
happy occasion.
  The United States and Taiwan have a long history of friendship and a 
tradition of democracy which bind our two nations. Despite the lack of 
formal diplomatic relations between Taiwan and America, our economic, 
political, and military ties are strong and continue to grow.
  For decades, the freedom and individual rights afforded to Taiwan's 
citizens have shown as a beacon in the darkness to the millions of 
oppressed Chinese citizens across the Taiwan Straits. Taiwan is a model 
for the mainland on many fronts, from its growing democracy to its 
robust economy.
  I am proud to say that the United States has always been an 
uncompromising partner with Taiwan, making sure that our ally has the 
means to defend its democracy in the event of attack from mainland 
China. While peace in the Taiwan Straits has been fragile at times, the 
people of Taiwan continue to stand tall and firmly committed to their 
freedom.
  I salute their courage and strength and know that the American people 
join with them in celebrating this important anniversary of liberty and 
democracy in East Asia.

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