[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 154 (2008), Part 16]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 22937]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




       CONGRATULATING THE PEOPLE OF TAIWAN ON THEIR NATIONAL DAY

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. DONALD M. PAYNE

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, September 26, 2008

  Mr. PAYNE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the people of 
Taiwan on the occasion of their National Day on October 10. As a member 
of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, I am pleased to send my best 
wishes to our friends in Taiwan.
  The Republic of China (Taiwan) is our ally in the Pacific. Although 
it is a small island nation, it has a growing and progressive economy, 
providing its citizens with quality education, health care and 
affordable housing. Also, with its well-educated population, Taiwan is 
an ideal place for business entrepreneurship. Much of Taiwan's economic 
prowess is directly attributable to Taiwan's political system.
  A vibrant democracy, Taiwan's history of democratization is an 
important example of how other countries can change. In a little more 
than two decades, Taiwan has peacefully transformed its political 
system, from authoritarianism to democratic government, providing a 
role model for other non-democratic political governments in Asia. 
Taiwan's successful democratic experience proves that democracy can 
thrive on Chinese soil.
  We hope that in the years ahead, Taiwan and China will reach a 
rapprochement of sorts. Cross-strait relations are improving every day: 
There are now charter flights from Taiwan to the mainland, relaxation 
of China-bound investments, more visas for mainland tourists, and more 
exchange in many areas. Taiwan's new president Ma Ying-jeou is 
committed to pursue reconciliation and truce with the People's 
Republic. President Ma looks for peace and co-prosperity with the 
People's Republic.
  Congratulations to the people of Taiwan and a warm welcome to 
Ambassador Jason Yuan. Ambassador Yuan is a distinguished career 
diplomat and will represent his country well.

                          ____________________