Honoring Taiwan President Chen Shui-Bian

HONORING TAIWAN PRESIDENT CHEN SHUI-BIAN -- (Extensions of Remarks - October 07, 2004)

SPEECH OF
HON. JOHN BOOZMAN
OF ARKANSAS
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 6, 2004

Mr. BOOZMAN. Mr. Speaker, I join my colleagues in honoring Taiwan President, Chen Shui-bian, and his people on the occasion of their October 10 National Day.

In the past two decades, Taiwan has truly emerged as a model Asian country. Secretary Powell said it well when he remarked, "Taiwan has become a resilient economy, a vibrant democracy and a generous contributor to the international community." In fact, Taiwan's economy is the 16th largest in the world. One third the size of Virginia, Taiwan produces a Gross National Product that is four-fifths the size of Australia's.

In addition, Taiwan's democracy gives its people a full range of political and civil rights, including freedom of speech and assembly. Taiwan also contributes to international causes. For example, in the last 10 years, Taiwan has given $100 million dollars to 78 countries and Taiwan is now providing a significant amount of humanitarian assistance to refugees in Afghanistan and Iraq.

Mr. Speaker, Taiwan has become a close friend of the United States. Our relationship with Taiwan is multifaceted and wide-ranging. While we do not have formal diplomatic relations with Taiwan, our mutual relationship has been able to flourish over many years. The United States and Taiwan have many common interests and shared values. Taiwan has been supportive of the United States, including our efforts in the war against global terror. In turn, the United States should help Taiwan return to the World Health Organization and the United Nations and commit ourselves to the Taiwan Relations Act, thus assuring Taiwan's security.

It is clear to us that the 23 million people of Taiwan prefer the status quo in the Taiwan Strait. They prefer peace, stability and continued prosperity instead of dramatic changes that might undermine or endanger what they have achieved. To reflect the will of the people, in his May 20 inaugural address to the Taiwanese people, Taiwan President Chen Shui-bian was very conciliatory toward China and offered to open talks with China without pre-conditions. In fact, he did not rule out any form of relationship with China as long as it would be acceptable to the people of Taiwan. During this difficult time, the United States should support Taiwan's security, dignity and sovereignty. We should listen to the 23 million people of Taiwan and heed their desire for continued peace and democracy.

Mr. Speaker, in closing I wish to congratulate Taiwan ambassador, Dr. David Lee, and the people of Taiwan on their National Day and wish them every success in their year-end legislative elections.