Political Quotes

“I rise to commend and applaud the 23 million people of Taiwan for their support of the United States in the aftermath of the September 11 terrorist attack on our country. From the beginning, Taiwan's message for United States and the world has been clear. Taiwan condemned terrorism and especially those perpetrators who killed thousands of innocent people and disrupted the lives of million of people worldwide. Taiwan has stood with the United States in its love for democracy and freedom. The strength of our nations to overcome disasters and terror has never been clearer. The terrorists on September 11 hoped to destabilize our economy and strike fear in those countries that believe in the Democratic principals of freedom and peace. They did not succeed and will not succeed because of friends like Taiwan. On this day, I strongly believe that Taiwan needs a greater international presence. I support Taiwan's aspirations to be an active member in the international community. It has all the qualifications: a sound political system, a much admired economy, and a genuine desire to maintain peace and stability in East Asia and the world. With a United Nations membership, Taiwan will become a very useful player, contributing its finances and ideas to combat nuclear proliferation, environmental abuses, human rights violations, and worldwide terrorism.”