George Holding: “Let me first thank Chairman Royce for his steadfast leadership on the Foreign Affairs Committee on this legislation that…”

“Let me first thank Chairman Royce for his steadfast leadership on the Foreign Affairs Committee on this legislation that we have before us today. {time} 1700 Mr. Speaker, H.R. 3470 strengthens the bilateral relationship between the United States and the Republic of China on Taiwan in two very important ways. First, it reaffirms Congress' commitment to the Taiwan Relations Act that for 35 years has served as the foundation of our relationship with the Republic of China on Taiwan. Secondly, Mr. Speaker, it authorizes the transfer of additional Perry-class guided missile frigates to Taiwan. And I should point out that I have seen firsthand in Taiwan the threat that the People's Republic of China constantly presents to Taiwan. They are there, right across a very short distance body of water, ready to strike at any time, so reaffirming our military commitment to Taiwan is critical. As we have seen the Chinese Government continue to escalate tensions in the region, Mr. Speaker, making certain that we enhance this security cooperation is important. As Chairman Royce pointed out, Taiwan is a superior trading partner with the United States. They are in the top 10 trading partners, and I point out that the trade with Taiwan represents about 500,000 jobs here in the United States.…”