[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 154 (2008), Part 5]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 6084]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




       CONGRATULATING TAIWANESE PRESIDENT-ELECT MR. MA YING-JEOU

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                          HON. DANIEL LIPINSKI

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, April 15, 2008

  Mr. LIPINSKI. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Mr. Ma 
Ying-jeou on his success in the March 22 presidential election in 
Taiwan, as well as applaud the democratic process that led to his 
election. The success of the fair and peaceful Taiwanese presidential 
election and the transfer of power from one party to another 
demonstrate that Taiwan is a genuine democracy and a shining example of 
freedom for the rest of the region.
  As Mr. Ma is inaugurated on May 20th, I look forward to continuing 
the exceptional relationship between the United States and Taiwan. 
Taiwan is one of America's strongest partners in the region and a true 
friend of the United States. Similarly, I am pleased to know of Mr. 
Ma's pledged support for strengthening ties with the U.S. and I am 
confident that our relationship will grow stronger.
  I also applaud the president-elect's initiatives to improve relations 
between Taiwan and China through increased dialogues on proposals that 
would greatly benefit the people of Taiwan and China. Increased 
communication and commerce between the people of China and Taiwan will 
greatly assist in reducing tensions in the region while allowing the 
Chinese to see firsthand the success of democracy in Taiwan.
  I rise today, Madam Speaker, to commend the democratic process that 
led to the free and fair election of Mr. Ma Ying-jeou, whom I heartily 
congratulate on his attainment of this high office.
  I sincerely hope that the rest of the world has taken note of the 
historic events that have transpired in these free and transparent 
elections. May this democratic spirit reach far and wide and inspire a 
desire to foster democracy all around the world. Again, I congratulate 
Mr. Ma in his election and wish him the very best.

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