Congresswoman Laura Richardson Rises in Support of the 100th Anniversary of the Founding of the Republic of China (Taiwan)

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Republic of China, also known as Taiwan, which will occur on October 10, 2011.

On October 10, 1911, revolutionaries led by Dr. Sun Yat-sen launched an uprising in Taiwan to overturn dynastic rule that prevailed in China for over two thousand years. The Provisional Government of the Republic of China was established, declaring the Republic of China (ROC) an independent and sovereign state and the first republic in Asia. Dr. Sun Yat-sen served as their first president. October 10th is now celebrated annually as ROC's national day, also known as ''Double Ten Day.''

In honor of the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Republic of China, we remember and celebrate the struggles the Republic of China faced in order to become a democratic republic state. We also acknowledge Dr. Sun Yat-sen's dedication to the principles of nationalism, democracy and the people's livelihood. Since its founding nearly a century ago, the Republic of China has undergone tremendous transformations and has matured into a free-market, multi-party democracy that plays key roles in the global economy and in maintaining regional peace and stability.

As a proud member of the Congressional Taiwan Caucus, I have had the privilege to travel to Taiwan this past May as part of a bipartisan delegation. I had the pleasure of meeting President Ma Ying-jeou and other government officials. I was strongly encouraged by their commitment to maintaining strong ties with the United States.

As we celebrate Taiwan's progress and development during the past century, we must also applaud their commitment to the ideals of freedom and democracy. I would like to congratulate the people of Taiwan for continuing in the traditions of Sun Yat-sen and maintaining the vibrant democracy that is a model for the entire world.

Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in honoring the Republic of China on the 100th anniversary of its founding.