The 30th anniversary of Taiwan’s first presidential elections would be commemorated under a bipartisan resolution introduced on Monday by U.S. Sen. John Curtis (R-UT).
Senate Resolution 657, which Sen. Curtis cosponsored alongside sponsor U.S. Sen. Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and nine fellow original cosponsors, also would recommit support for U.S. policy toward Taiwan as established by the Taiwan Relations Act and the Six Assurances.
“Having lived in Taiwan during the era of martial law, I witnessed firsthand a society striving for greater freedom,” Sen. Curtis said. “Over the past 30 years, Taiwan’s embrace of democratic elections has transformed it into one of the world’s most vibrant, prosperous, and innovative societies.”
“Its success stands as a powerful testament to the strength of liberty, the rule of law, and the enduring promise of self-government,” added the congressman. “Taiwan’s journey reminds us that democracy, when nurtured and defended, can deliver both freedom and opportunity for generations.”
On March 23, 1996, the people of Taiwan held their first direct presidential election, marking an historic milestone in the country’s democratic development, according to the text of the resolution.
Since that time, Taiwan has now held eight presidential and multiple legislative and local elections, “all of which were free, fair, and representative of the will of the people of Taiwan,” the resolution says.
Under the resolution, the U.S. Senate would commemorate the historic significance of Taiwan’s first direct presidential election; commend Taiwan for building and sustaining a robust democratic system; regard the democracy of Taiwan as a great strategic strength for the free world and a key component of strong and enduring U.S.-Taiwan relations; and commit to continued support of Taiwan’s self defense and the liberty of its people.
“For 30 years, democracy has helped our close friend Taiwan flourish — and it’s critical we send a strong, bipartisan message that we’re here with them for the long haul,” said Sen. Duckworth. “As Taiwan works to strengthen their own democracy in the face of escalating threats from the People’s Republic of China, I’m proud to lead our bipartisan recognition of this historic anniversary for the island.”