Taiwan Support

TAIWAN SUPPORT

Mr. CRAPO. Mr. President, I rise today to bring to the attention of my colleagues the importance of U.S. relations with Taiwan.

Most Americans have been focused on the two media showpiece events in recent weeks—the conflict in Iraq and the SARS pandemic. I would note to the Senate that our relations with Taiwan—a key strategic ally for the United States and a critical regional trading partner—should not be overlooked.

In addition to its strategic role with the U.S., Taiwan has a strong market-based economy and burgeoning multi-party democratic system. It has helped lead the modernization of Southeast Asia by demonstrating the importance of respecting civil liberties and the rule of law.

A component of U.S. efforts to ensure regional stability is to maintain strong relations with Taiwan, including assurances to protect the island against military attacks. To support this effort, the U.S. has a tradition of providing military assistance to Taiwan for the purpose of its self-defense. In recent years, this assistance has primarily been in the form of sales of aircraft and advanced warning radars to the Taiwanese government. Most recently, the Bush administration announced it would sell Taiwan a new assortment of defense articles, including diesel submarines, P-3C anti-submarine aircraft, and Kidd-class destroyers. I support this decision because it recognizes the legitimate self-defense requirements of Taiwan, but does not destabilize the sensitive relations between Taipei and Beijing.

The Key to ensuring peace and stability in the region is to promote healthy U.S. relations with Taiwan and support efforts to encourage the People's Republic of China and Taiwan to resolve their differences peacefully. We should continue to pursue a means of supporting Taiwan without harming U.S. interests in China.