WASHINGTON, D.C. -- U.S. Congressman Bob Schaffer (R-CO) today celebrated passage of legislation he authored promoting Taiwan’s participation in the United Nations (UN) and the World Health Organization (WHO). Members of the U.S. House of Representatives joined Rep. Schaffer in showing their support for Taiwan by passing H.Con.Res.390.

"Passage of this legislation is long overdue. The Taiwanese people have proved their legitimacy as a pro-America, democratic nation, and they deserve the opportunity to participate in the international community," Schaffer said. "This House victory clearly shows America stands squarely in favor of Taiwan’s self determination."

Schaffer’s bill, backed by a group of 86 bipartisan cosponsors, re-affirms the United States’ commitment made in the 1994 Taiwan Policy Review to actively support Taiwan’s membership in international organizations.

"I introduced this bill after Secretary of State Madeline Albright and the Clinton Administration failed to endorse Taiwanese participation in the United Nations and the World Health Organization. Taiwan continues making progress as a full democracy, and I am pleased the House has shown such overwhelming support for this legislation," Schaffer said.

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Congressman Schaffer was first elected to Congress in November of 1996. He is a member of the Agriculture Committee, the Resources Committee and the Education and the Workforce Committee. He is Vice Chairman of the Education Subcommittee on Early Childhood, Youth and Families, Chairman of the Western Caucus Water Working Group, Co-Chair of the Western Water Caucus and President of the Republican Sophomore Class. His official Internet website address is www.house.gov/schaffer.