TAIWAN -- (Extensions of Remarks - January 21, 2004)

SPEECH OF HON. JOSEPH M. HOEFFEL OF PENNSYLVANIA
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

Mr. HOEFFEL. Mr. Speaker, Taiwan has been a close and valuable ally of our nation since its inception as the

Republic of China in 1949. In contrast to the People's Republic of China, both democracy and capitalism have

flourished in Taiwan, as demonstrated by its peaceful transition to a multi-party political system and its thriving

 free market economy. 

I support the notion of a united China, but not if it means the assimilation of Taiwan into anything resembling 

the current People's Republic. Rather, I look forward to the day when both peoples are united in a truly democratic

state, and are able to share in the political and economic freedoms of Taiwan. Until this is possible, the United States

must use the tools at our disposal to maintain the status quo, guaranteeing the people of Taiwan the freedom they 

currently enjoy. 

Taiwanese President Chen Shui-bian has called for a nationwide referendum in March regarding China's deployment

of hundreds of missiles aimed at Taiwan. Asking the Taiwanese people whether Taiwan should purchase more 

anti-missile defenses in response to this obvious threat does not represent an 

escalation of tensions with China. On the contrary, this "defensive referendum"is an affirmation of Taiwan's democratic 

system.  We must support this exercise of the right of free expression, which is consistent with our own values. 

In this instance, China's inflammatory statements, not Taiwan's referendum, threaten to upset the delicate balance that 

exists in the region. The United States must remain firm in its support for the people

of Taiwan. And until China is ready to adopt a democratic system of government and a free market 

economy, that means maintaining the status quo.