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In addition to reconfirming this nation's military commitment to Taiwan, H.R. 1838 will
[Page: H121] GPO's PDF
The best way to make sure China will take Taiwan seriously and treat them fairly in discussions regarding reunification is to send a clear and unmistakable message that the United States will stand by Taiwan if China takes any aggressive action in the Taiwan Strait. Today we have the opportunity to stand up for freedom and democracy and show our support for the people of Taiwan.
Mr. Speaker I urge a bipartisan yes vote for the Taiwan Security Enhancement Act.
Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I rise to speak on the legislation before us, H.R. 1838, the Taiwan Security Enhancement Act, which seeks to promote stability between Taiwan, the People's Republic of China, and the United States.
At the outset, I would note that at the heart of the relationship between Taiwan and the United States lies the Taiwan Relations Act, which for over two decades has effectively laid and preserved the foundation for peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait.
When the security of our friends in Taiwan was threatened by China in spring of 1996, I joined with our colleagues in Congress in strongly supporting the Clinton administration's decision to send the Nimitz and Independence carrier groups to the Taiwan Strait to maintain peace. China's missile tests, military exercises, and threatened use of force contravened China's commitment under the 1979 and 1982 Joint Communiques to resolve Taiwan's status by peaceful means. The joint communiques, in concert with the Taiwan Relations Act, lay the framework for our ``One China'' policy, which fundamentally stresses that force shall not be used in resolution of the Taiwan question.
Mr. Speaker, the graphic response of the United States in 1996 sent an unequivocal message to Beijing, as witnessed by the world, that America would not stand by idly while Taiwan was threatened with China's military might. The formidable U.S. military presence in Taiwan's waters, along with the explicit warnings of grave consequences for Chinese use of force against Taiwan, concretely demonstrated our Nation's determination and resolve to aid Taiwan in the event of attack. In my view, Mr. Speaker, our actions that were taken then during the heat of the Taiwan Strait crisis continue to speak volumes today about America's unquestioned and unshakeable commitment to Taiwan's security, much more than any policy statements we might adopt today.
Mr. Speaker, under the existing policy of the Taiwan Relations Act, our Nation and Taiwan have formed a close partnership that already encompasses military relations , meetings of high-level officials, and extensive transfers of high-tech defense weaponry.
As we examine the legislation before us, I ask our colleagues to question whether it actually enhances the security of Taiwan above and beyond what has, what is, and will be provided to Taiwan for its legitimate defense needs under existing policy.
Mr. Speaker, the United States is firmly and unequivocally committed to the protection of Taiwan's people and democracy, and certainly no nation knows this better than China. I am not persuaded that the legislation before us is necessary nor that it serves to enhance stability in the Taiwan Strait.
Mr. KNOLLENBERG. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 1838 and I thank my colleagues on both sides of the aisle for their efforts to bring this bill to the floor today.
The United States relationship with the Republic of China is vital to our economic and national security interests. Through its financial success and blossoming democracy Taiwan remains a model for other countries in Asia, including China, to follow.
The story of Taiwan's economic success is now widespread. During and after the Asian financial crisis, Taiwan's free-market economy fared much better than its centrally controlled neighbors. Their economy, in fact, maintained a GDP growth rate of 4.8 percent over 1998.
It is also wise for us to remember that Taiwan is the United States 7th largest trading partner and an important part of the successful economy we enjoy today. In February 1998, Taiwan and the United States negotiated a market access agreement as a prelude to Taiwan's entry into the World Trade Organization.
This strong economic relationship with Taiwan and our successful negotiations with Taipei have helped to lead China into its own successful market access negotiations with the United States. Later this year in fact, Congress will pass legislation to grant China permanent normal trade relations status so that United States companies will benefit from China's entrance into the WTO. This will also improve our ability to provide support for the Chinese people who need our help the most.
Unfortunately, the administration's confused policies and actions in recent years have damaged our relationship with Taiwan and Congress must now pass this bill to steer us back on the right course.
The United States, as the world's leading democracy, has a responsibility to support the security of Taiwan, one of the world's smallest yet one of the most important democracies.
Mrs. FOWLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of H.R. 1838, the Taiwan Security Enhancement Act.
This legislation is necessary to reaffirm our Nation's commitments to Taiwan, an important partner of our country in the realm of trade , and a strong proponent of democracy.
American policies, which oppose China's use of force against Taiwan, need reinforcement now, as Taiwan approaches presidential elections. Four years ago, China's leadership conducted a series of missile tests near Taiwan--a move meant to intimidate the Taiwanese people on the eve of elections then. In response, the United States was compelled to deploy two carrier battle groups in order to restore tranquility.
Today, China is engaged in a build-up of missile forces that again threatens Taiwan. These unwarranted, threatening developments make this bill's consideration today an imperative.
It is patently obvious that Taiwan poses no threat to China. Military training or other security measures provided to Taiwan by the United States is strictly oriented towards Taiwan's defense. As such, this bill merits our strong support.
The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. HASTINGS of Washington). Pursuant to House Resolution 408, the previous question is ordered on the bill, as amended.
The question is on the engrossment and third reading of the bill.
The bill was ordered to be engrossed and read a third time, and was read the third time.
The SPEAKER pro tempore. The question is on the passage of the bill.
The question was taken; and the Speaker pro tempore announced that the ayes appeared to have it.
Mr. GILMAN. Mr. Speaker, on that I demand the yeas and nays.
The yeas and nays were ordered.
The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursuant to clause 8 of rule XX further proceedings on this motion will be postponed until later today.
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