The Honorable Chen Shui-bian
President-elect
Democratic Progressive Party
10 F, 30 Peiping E. RD
Taipei, Taiwan

March 21, 2000

Dear President-elect Shui-bian:

Please accept my warmest congratulations on your victory.  Your successful election clearly demonstrates Taiwan's strength and persistence for a true democratic country.

Undeterred by China's threat, Taiwanese voters elected pro-independence party candidates, ending more than half a century of Nationalist rule.  The election ends the reign of a corrupt and bureaucratic government, sends a message Taiwan will not tolerate political power imposed from the outside, and returns the government back to the people.

Freedom is always better than the tyranny of an oppressive form of government, and your triumph has solidified this true democratic spirit in Taiwan.  With your victory, it is only fitting that Taiwan work with China to establish a lasting peace between the two countries.

The people of Taiwan have made a profound decision about their own individual future and their own individual liberty.  Their confidence in you to lead them toward a democratic state and a free-market economy is a sentiment I share.  I, and many other Members of Congress, have complete confidence you will successfully accomplish this task.

Again, congratulations on your victory!

Very truly yours,

Bob Schaffer
Member of Congress