[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 133 (Wednesday, September 29, 2010)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E1869] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] THE 99TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE REPUBLIC OF CHINA (TAIWAN) ______ HON. DOUG LAMBORN of colorado in the house of representatives Wednesday, September 29, 2010 Mr. LAMBORN. Madam Speaker, on October 10th, the Republic of China will celebrate National Day, this year marking their 99th anniversary. The United States of American and Taiwan enjoy a close and strong relationship based on shared democratic values and free market economies. I salute the people of Taiwan for their recent achievements, including the completion on June 29 of the Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA) with China. Improving relations between Taiwan and mainland China have greatly reduced tension across the Taiwan Strait. While welcome, the improved relations between the two sides does not eliminate the need for the United States to continue to help Taiwan's defense capabilities under the Taiwan Relations Act. We should continue to aid Taiwan in replacing its aging air force. According to the most recent Department of Defense report on Taiwan's military power, China continues to enjoy air superiority over Taiwan. It is also my view that we must support Taiwan's participation in global affairs by supporting Taiwan and its 23,000,000 people in becoming a member of the United Nations. An internationally visible Taiwan is a strong Taiwan. Today, Taiwan is a major trading partner and friend. Our strong economic and cultural ties go back nearly a hundred years. We hope that this strong bond will continue for another 100 years and more. ____________________