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A Statement on Taiwan National Day

By: Jim Costa
By: Jim Costa
Date: Oct. 7, 2005
Location: Washington, DC
Issues: Housing and Property


A STATEMENT ON TAIWAN NATIONAL DAY -- (Extensions of Remarks - October 07, 2005)

* Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the people of Taiwan on the occasion of National Day on October 10.

* 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. In a recent survey conducted by the Geneva-based World Economic Forum, Taiwan was ranked first in Asia and fifth in the world in terms of growth competitiveness. With its well-educated population, Taiwan is an ideal training ground and 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 2 decades Taiwan has peacefully transformed its political system, from authoritarian to democratic government, providing a role model for other non-democratic political governments in Asia. In view of China's growing military strength and intentions, the best way to safeguard Asia's permanent peace and prosperity is to have all Asian countries join forces with other democratic countries in the world to form a global community of democracies. In the meantime, we hope democracy will take roots in China. Taiwan's successful democratic experience proves that democracy can indeed thrive on Chinese soil.

* We also hope that in the months and years ahead, Taiwan and China will reach a rapprochement of sorts. Taiwan has made efforts to expand cross-strait exchanges in the fields of journalism, information exchange, education, culture and trade in endeavoring to foster mutual trust. Taiwan President Chen Shui-bian has adopted a policy of reconciliation and goodwill toward China. I hope Taiwan President Chen Shui-bian and PRC President Hu Jintao will soon meet and discuss cross-strait issues. A unified China under the principles of freedom, democracy and prosperity is the dream of all peace-loving people.

* Again, congratulations to the people of the Republic of China on their National Day.

http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/query/D?r109:3:./temp/~r1096rrHEF::

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