DATE=10/26/1999
TYPE=CORRESPONDENT REPORT
TITLE=CONGRESS-TAIWAN (L ONLY)
NUMBER=2-255501
BYLINE=PAULA WOLFSON
DATELINE=CAPITOL HILL
CONTENT=
VOICED AT:
INTRO: The U-S House of Representatives is preparing
for a final vote (in the next few weeks) on enhancing
America's defense relationship with Taiwan, a subject
that often complicates relations between the United
States and China. V-O-A's Paula Wolfson reports the
bill got a strong endorsement (Tuesday) from a key
House committee.
TEXT: It could be the last big foreign policy debate
of the year in the House of Representatives. And some
House members say it will be their most important vote
The bill - formally known as the Taiwan Security
Enhancement Act - was originally drafted by top
Republicans who believe the United States is not doing
enough to meet Taiwan's defense needs.
The House International Relations Committee modified
the legislation somewhat in an effort to broaden its
base of support. A list of specific weapons systems
that should be sold to Taiwan was dropped, and some
ambiguous language was removed.
Committee Chairman Benjamin Gilman was pleased with
the results.
/// Gilman Act ///
Ensuring and enhancing Taiwan's ability to
defend itself increases prospects for continued
peace and stability in Northeast Asia and also
supports our national interests.
/// End Act ///
The New York Republican accused the Clinton
administration of ignoring requests for help from
Taipei. The top Democrat on the committee - Sam
Gejdenson (Gay'-den-son) of Connecticut - took issue
with the criticism of the president, but joined Mr.
Gilman in supporting the bill.
/// Opt ///
/// Gejdenson Act ///
I believe the work the chairman and others on
this committee have done on this resolution
brings forward a balanced resolution that is not
provocative but clearly states America's concern
for the democratic people and the democratic
institutions on the island of Taiwan.
/// End Act ///
/// End Opt ///
Their enthusiasm was shared by most - but not all -
committee members. Among those who rose to challenge
the bill were two long-time supporters of Taiwan.
California Democrat Tom Lantos is one of the leading
human rights activists in the House. Republican Matt
Salmon of Arizona spent several years as a missionary
in a Taiwanese village and still speaks fluent
Chinese.
Both said the legislation will do more harm than good.
Mr. Lantos called the bill politically motivated.
/// Lantos Act ///
This legislation is politically designed to
embarrass the administration, which I don't
think is an objective that is in the national
interest.
/// End Act ///
Congressman Salmon said his opposition stems from the
timing of the legislation. He worried aloud that the
House might be rushing to pass a bill without really
looking at the consequences for the region.
/// Salmon Act ///
This is so important. Let's take the time to do
it right. And let's get all the information
that we possibly can before we move ahead.
/// End Act ///
The Clinton administration has raised concerns about
the House bill and a similar measure pending in the
Senate. Officials say the 1979 Taiwan Relations Act
already sets the parameters for Washington's security
relationship with Taipei, and further legislation
would be counterproductive.
/// Rest Opt ///
No firm date has been set for a House vote on the new
Taiwan Security Enhancement Act. However, Congress
plans to adjourn for the year in November and action
is expected soon. (signed)
NEB/PW/JP
26-Oct-1999 15:55 PM EDT (26-Oct-1999 1955 UTC)
NNNN
Source: Voice of America
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