Mark Souder: “I rise in support of the ROC. The Republic of China, more commonly known as Taiwan, is a democratic haven perched on the…”

“I rise in support of the ROC. The Republic of China, more commonly known as Taiwan, is a democratic haven perched on the edge of Asia and confronted everyday with the scourge of communism. H. Con. Res. 462 reaffirms an unwavering commitment by the United States to the Taiwan Relations Act and to the ROC. From the moment the communists overran the Chinese mainland, the Republic of China on Taiwan has been threatened with invasion and destruction. The dictators in Beijing have sought to isolate Taiwan from the rest of the world. They put pressure on Taiwan to be subservient to Beijing's diktats. Despite this constant shadow, the people of Taiwan have built a vibrant market economy and an equally vibrant democracy based on the rule of law. As Taiwan has prospered and worked to achieve full democracy, the United States has stood shoulder to shoulder with Taiwan against the potential onslaught of the so-called 'People's' Republic of China. Unlike in mainland China, the people of Taiwan enjoy many of the freedoms that we in the United States also enjoy. As mainland China develops economically, it would be easy for the United States to focus on Beijing and forget about our longstanding ally. This is not and never should be the case. The United States must continue to be a partner with Taiwan. We must do what we can to help Taiwan maintain its political and economic independence.”