[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 156 (2010), Part 12] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page 17365] [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]REPUBLIC OF CHINA'S NATIONAL DAY ______ HON. JOE BARTON of texas in the house of representatives Tuesday, September 28, 2010 Mr. BARTON of Texas. Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize the Republic of China's National Day on October 10th. Today I join the Taiwanese people as they celebrate their freedom. Taiwan has peacefully transformed itself from an authoritarian regime to full-fledged democracy. It will hopefully constitute a model for the eventual establishment of a genuine democracy in China. The United States and Taiwan value human rights, civil liberties, a free press and the rule of law. Our shared values have produced a strong and dependable friendship for over sixty years. Today, the people of Taiwan determine their own destiny and government through free and fair elections. The Republic of China was one of the first to come to our aid after the events of September 11th attacks and Hurricane Katrina devastations. Taiwan continues to be our ally in the war against terrorism by providing humanitarian assistance in Iraq and Afghanistan. In honoring the Republic of China, we need to continue to sell defensive weapons to Taiwan fulfilling our commitments under the Taiwan Relations Act. Despite the goodwill that has been gradually built up between Taiwan and China, the possibility of military confrontation continues to exist in the Taiwan Strait. A well-armed Taiwan is the best guarantee to perpetuate peace and stability in the region. To ROC President Ma Ying-jeou I say ``good luck.'' I remain hopeful that our relations will continue to be strengthened in 2011 and beyond. Certainly, the capable leadership of Ambassador Jason Yuan has helped to further our relations with the government and people of Taiwan. ____________________