On the recordOctober 6, 2011
I rise to draw the attention of my colleagues to the approach of a very special day in the history of our friend and partner, the Republic of China--ROC--on Taiwan. On October 10, 1911--precisely 100 years ago--the Republic of China was founded, and since then has celebrated October 10 as its National Day. Over the course of this century, the Republic of China has been a firm friend of the United States--from World War II to the Cold War, up to the present day. More recently, the ROC on Taiwan has emerged as one of the great success stories of the past century--a free market democracy that is a model for the entire region. I believe that it is especially appropriate to note this anniversary on the Senate floor because of the unique and important role that the U.S. Congress has played in supporting the U.S.-Taiwan relationship, by virtue of the Taiwan Relations Act. Unique among all of our international partnerships, the TRA established in law America's commitment to support the people of Taiwan as they seek a safe and secure place in the world. I am grateful for the opportunity to wish the people of Taiwan my congratulations on this auspicious anniversary, and hope my colleagues will join me in celebrating a very special National Day. ____________________





