In Support of Our Close Partner Taiwan

Floor Speech

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Mr. DesJARLAIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to highlight the positive steps that our close partner and friend Taiwan has taken in the South China Sea. On December 12, 2015, the Taiwanese government inaugurated a newly constructed lighthouse and renovated wharf on the Taiping Island, which is the largest natural island of the Spratly Islands in the South China Sea and has been administered by Taiwan since 1946. This infrastructure project will help support free and safe passage of ships through the surrounding waters, further enabling Taiwan to offer humanitarian assistance, disaster relief, and provide emergency rescue support to passing vessels. Like the United States, Taiwan is a firm believer in freedom of navigation rights and has actively worked to promote peace and prosperity throughout the South China Sea region. Earlier this year, Taiwan President Ma Ying-jeou proposed the South China Sea Peace Initiative, reiterating their government's longstanding position of shelving disputes and promoting joint resource development in these contested waters. Over the years, Taiwan has continued to play a responsible and peaceful role in the region and as such, I urge my colleagues to join me in working with our Taiwanese partners to promote our common interests and uphold international law.

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