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Sen. Mark Steven Kirk

Mr. Speaker, as we mark the 23rd anniversary of the Taiwan Relations Act today, I wish to comment on the special relationship between the United States and Taiwan.

In 1978, President Jimmy Carter switched diplomatic recognition from the Republic of China to the People's Republic of China. To ensure Taiwan would continue to prosper and grow, Congress passed the Taiwan Relations Act in 1979. For the last twenty-three years, the Taiwan Relations Act has worked exceedingly well, providing Taiwan with the necessary security, while reminding the Chinese mainland not to use force against this flourishing democracy. On this 23rd anniversary, it is important to remind everyone that the United States stands behind the spirit of the Taiwan Relations Act.

The United States continues to enjoy a longstanding and healthy relationship with Taiwan. The people of Taiwan have always stood shoulder to shoulder with us, and we should stand by them as well. I rise today in recognition of these continued positive relations between Taiwan and the United States.