Taiwan National Day

Floor Speech

Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Taiwan on its 101st National Day, which will occur on October 10th, 2012. As a member of the Taiwan Caucus, I recognize the importance of continuing to cultivate a strong relationship between the United States and Taiwan.

The United States and Taiwan share a strong commitment to freedom. As a beacon of democracy for Southeast Asia and the rest of the world, Taiwan and its 23 million people enjoy self-governance, free elections, and the protection of individual rights. The policies pursued by President Ma Ying-jeou have made Taiwan a strong ally to the United States in these turbulent times.

Taiwan also is a strong business partner for the United States. It is our tenth largest trading partner and the sixth largest market for United States agriculture exports. Georgia and Taiwan also have strong business ties. Taiwan is Georgia's thirteenth largest export market, grossing $68 million in profit for Georgia last year alone. Taiwan imports chemicals, automobiles, and, of course, Coca-Colas. Taiwan is also a leading innovator and producer of information technology and knowledge-based industries.

The United States has supported Taiwan's transformation to a vibrant democracy. It should be congratulated for its 101 years of freedom and prosperity. It continues to be a model of democracy for Southeast Asia and countries all over the globe.

Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me today in congratulating Taiwan on its 101st National Day. I am confident that the friendship and close relationship that has been cultivated by the United States and Taiwan will continue for many years to come.

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