[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 159 (2013), Part 11]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 16211]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




COMMEMORATING THE 102ND ANNIVERSARY OF TAIWAN'S DOUBLE TEN NATIONAL DAY

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. GERALD E. CONNOLLY

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, October 24, 2013

  Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, as co-chair of the Congressional Caucus on 
Taiwan, it is my pleasure to congratulate Taiwan on the recent 102nd 
anniversary of its Double Ten National Day.
  A vibrant democracy and dynamic economy in Taiwan foster a 
strengthened society that values the benefits that come with a wide 
exchange of goods, services, and ideas. America's rebalance to Asia 
highlights the importance of close diplomatic ties, strengthened 
economic relationships, and continued engagement with our neighbors in 
the region. The United States is both an Atlantic and a Pacific nation. 
We are pleased and proud to have a friend and ally in Taiwan.
  Recently, Taiwan pledged to buy 62.5 million bushels of U.S. wheat, 
committed to developing exchange programs and joint research projects 
with the Thurgood Marshall College Fund, and declared its strong 
interest in joining the Trans-Pacific Partnership, once again 
demonstrating the advantages of strong ties between the United States 
and Taiwan.
  The United States also has demonstrated its commitment to Taiwan. In 
July, President Obama signed a law which directs the Secretary of State 
to develop a strategy to obtain observer status for Taiwan at the 
International Civil Aviation Organization Assembly. In August, the 
House Committee of Foreign Affairs passed the Taiwan Policy Act of 2013 
which again expresses support for Taiwan and provides for continued 
political, economic, and security assistance.
  It is an honor to serve as co-chair of the Congressional Caucus on 
Taiwan and celebrate the thriving democracy in Taiwan. I ask my 
colleagues to rise and join me in congratulating Taiwan on this 
anniversary of its Double Ten National Day.

                          ____________________