Sunday, December 11, 2011
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
US House body votes to adopt new laws on Taiwan
TAIPEI TIMES
November 19, 2011
The US House of Representatives’ Committee on Foreign Affairs voted unanimously on Thursday to adopt two new laws to substantially boost US relations with Taiwan.While the bills may pass the full House, they are likely to fail in the Senate where US President Barack Obama’s administration has the votes to defeat them.
Nevertheless, the bills are an indication of just how much bipartisan support Taiwan enjoys on Capitol Hill.
“This legislation is designed to address the drift and lack of strategic thinking that has hurt the relationship [between the US and Taiwan] in recent years,” committee Chairperson Ileana Ros-Lehtinen said.
She said there were a growing number of policy revisionists and apologists who wanted to use Taiwan as a “bargaining chip” to placate China.
“It was due to concern over these voices of appeasement that I felt it necessary to further strengthen and clarify our relations,” Ros-Lehtinen said. “These concerns have only been amplified by the administration’s regrettable and shortsighted decision not to sell the next generation F-16C/D fighters to Taiwan, despite growing evidence of China’s increasing military threat to the island.”
“Taiwan needs those F-16s and she needs them now to defend the skies over the Taiwan Strait. And Taiwan needs diesel submarines, and she needs them now to protect her territorial waters from the rapidly expanding PLA [People’s Liberation Army] Navy,” she added.
The bills are the Taiwan Policy Act of 2011, H.R. 2918, “to strengthen and clarify the commercial, cultural, and other relations between the people of the US and Taiwan,” and the Taiwan Airpower Modernization Act, H.R. 2992, “to provide Taiwan with critically needed multirole fighter aircraft.”
“The bills considered and adopted today will help ensure that Taiwan’s peace, prosperity and security will be maintained for the next three decades and beyond,” Ros-Lehtinen said.
The second bill — if passed by both the House and Senate — would require Obama to sell 66 advanced F-16C/D aircraft to Taiwan.
“While the recent agreement by the US to upgrade Taiwan’s existing fleet of F-16s is a step in the right direction, Taiwan also urgently needs new advanced combat aircraft to help meet the growing menace from communist China,” Ros-Lehtinen said.
Ros-Lehtinen said that it was “long past due” for the White House to “cease its dithering” and sell Taiwan the F-16C/Ds.
Howard Berman, the ranking Democrat on the committee, said he was a strong supporter of Taiwan and that both of the bills would “bolster our bilateral relationship with an important friend and ally.”
Formosan Association for Public Affairs president Bob Yang later said: “This is a powerful signal to the people of Taiwan and the Taiwanese-American community in the US.”
He said the bills recognized the importance of the US-Taiwan relationship for peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region and for safeguarding freedom and democracy.
The Taiwan Policy Act contains more than 20 provisions that will “broaden and deepen” the bilateral relationship between the US and Taiwan in many ways, including trade and commercial ties, participation in international organizations and through the sale of defensive arms.
House Foreign Affairs Committee passed two bills strengthening the U.S.-Taiwan alliance
NEWS
House Foreign Affairs Committee
U.S. House of Representatives
Ileana Ros-Lehtinen, Chairman
CONTACT: Brad Goehner and Andeliz Castillo, (202) 225-5021
Alex Cruz (South Florida press), (202) 225-8200
For IMMEDIATE Release – November 17, 2011
Ros-Lehtinen Says Bills Passed by Committee Today Supporting Sale of Advanced F-16 Fighter Aircraft to Taiwan Help Ensure Peace, Security
Administration refused to include new-model planes in recent arms sale
(WASHINGTON) – Earlier today, the House Foreign Affairs Committee passed two bills strengthening the U.S.-Taiwan alliance and enhancing Taiwan’s security and defense capabilities. The Committee adopted H.R. 2918, the Taiwan Policy Act of 2011, and H.R. 2992, the Taiwan Airpower Modernization Act of 2011, as amended. Both bills support the sale of F-16 C/D fighter planes to Taiwan. The bills were authored by Committee Chairman Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL) and Congresswoman Kay Granger (R-TX), the Chairman of the Appropriations Subcommittee on State-Foreign Operations, respectively.
“By building on the firm foundation laid by the Taiwan Relations Act over three decades ago, the Taiwan Policy Act will serve to move relations between the peoples of the United States and Taiwan to new levels in the areas of security, trade, and international travel,” Ros-Lehtinen said after both bills, as amended, were adopted by the Committee by voice vote.
“This Committee showed its support for the people of Taiwan, for the sale of F-16 fighters to this island democracy, and for the spirit of the Taiwan Relations Act by taking favorable action today on this legislation,” she continued. “The bills considered and adopted today will help ensure that Taiwan’s peace, prosperity and security will be maintained for the next three decades and beyond.”
Ros-Lehtinen also discussed the Administration’s “regrettable and short-sighted decision not to sell the next generation of F-16 C/D fighters to Taiwan, despite growing evidence of China’s increasing military threat to the island.” “Taiwan needs those F-16s and she needs them now to defend the skies over the Taiwan Strait,” she said.
NOTE: H.R. 2918 seeks to further diplomatic relations with Taiwan and encourages the President to approve the sale of F-16 C/D fighter aircraft to Taiwan, and authorizes that sale. The bill also seeks to add Taiwan to the visa waiver program, permit senior Taiwan leaders to meet with U.S. officials in all executive branches, and sign a comprehensive extradition agreement among other items.
H.R. 2992 expresses the sense of Congress that a strong Taiwan is necessary for peace and stability in Asia. The bill also directs the President to sell no fewer than 66 F-16 C/Ds to Taiwan.
Saturday, November 12, 2011
Thursday, October 27, 2011
良知與勇氣的傳承：彭明敏、謝聰敏和魏廷朝 - 唐培禮
唐牧師將赴台參加十二月十日 Fireproof Moth 漢文版新書發表會.
張信一牧師 translated the speech script of Rev. Thornberry to be published in the 長老教會公報 in Taiwan
唐培禮牧師(Rev. Milo Thornberry)與其前妻唐秋詩(Judith Thomas)於1965年來台當宣教師，認識了當時被國民黨軟禁的彭明敏教授，他們夫婦幫助彭教授成功地逃出台灣。幾十年來，大家都在猜測彭教授是怎麼逃出去的，大多數的人都以為是美國政府幫他的，沒想到，竟然是他們夫婦。唐牧師最近寫了一本書：【撲火飛蛾】(Fireproof Moth)，述說他們為什麼要冒險幫助彭教授和其他的政治受難者的心路歷程。該書已譯成中文，將於12月10日舉行新書發表會。本文是唐牧師在今年10月8日應柑縣FAPA之邀的演講全文。
良知與勇氣的傳承：彭明敏、謝聰敏和魏廷朝 唐培禮
1965 年美國衛理公會派我到台灣當宣教師，我有點擔憂，因為覺得我好像在逃避當時在美國國內的民權運動，這不只是我要離開什麼，而是我要去的地方。有一天我到美 南衛理大學的圖書館準備應付期末考，我看到了一本書叫「從中國發出的雷聲」(Thunder Out of China)，是Teddy White和 Annalee Jacoby在1946年合著的。我看了出版商所寫介紹這本書的短文，說美國國務院曾想辦法阻止這本書出版。就這樣，我無法放下那本書。 二位作者詳細描述蔣介石政府的貪腐與殘暴，但國務院不要美國人民知道真相。我向我的差會說我願意到東南亞四個講華語的國家當宣教師，台灣是我的最後一個志 願，但我和我前妻秋詩竟被派到台灣。台灣的衛理公會把我「借」給台灣基督長老教會，我就在台灣神學院和台南神學院教了四年的教會歷史。
認識彭明敏教授以後，我做了一些不在我做一個宣教師的職責範圍內的事。一位美國宣教士韋禮遜牧師(Don Wilson)， 他當時是長老教會的助理總幹事。1966年夏天，他要回國休假，他想國民黨大概會再允許他入境，所以介紹我們夫婦和彭教授認識。我們真的是一見如故。從此 每禮拜一次，彭教授擺脫了國民黨派來「照顧」他的那些人，來和我們見面，這樣持續了四年。從彭教授口中，我們得知國民黨的腐敗與殘暴，比White和 Jacoby書中所說的有過之而無不及。
一開始我們和彭先生提供一些可信的資料給想知道台灣情況的外國友人，這包括學術刊物的文章、台灣人寫的文章，有時也安排他們和彭教授見面。我們夫婦認為我們 不應去影響台灣人對台灣實際情況的看法，但我們認為我們有責任讓更多的美國人了解台灣的實際情形。四年內，我們提供了不少資訊給可信賴的外國朋友。
我有一個95歲 的朋友卡絲德，她幾乎完全失明，她要我把我的書「撲火飛蛾」讀給她聽。她好幾次問我：「您和您的家庭處在那麼危險的環境中，您為什麼不離開？」這本書可做 為我對這個問題的回答。但我可以簡單一點說：「當你交了一些好朋友，你知道他們生活在危險中，幫助他們要比一走了之容易。」
魏廷朝和謝聰敏
彭教授以外，我們還有二位好朋友：魏廷朝和謝聰敏，我們較晚才認識他們。1966年我們認識彭教授時，他們二人還在坐牢。他們是彭教授的學生，在1964年，和彭教授為了要發表「台灣自救宣言」而被捕。有人說，這是台灣人爭民主的開端。
雖 然我們是兩年後才遇到他們，但他們早就成為我們和彭先生所做的事工的一部分。我們很感佩他們的勇氣與創意，他們從獄中用很薄的紙張，送出了所有政治受難者 的名字，他們的情況以及他們的家庭資訊。我們設法把得到的資訊轉送給國際特赦組織，我們是希望，即使只有一點點曝光，也能對他們的安全有一點助益，外面的 人知道他們的情形。同時，從他們送出來的資訊，我們了解這些政治受難者的家境，於是我們開始設法資助他們。
1968年9月20日，魏廷朝出獄。他出來不到一個禮拜彭教授就帶他來我們家。他不怕獄卒，不向法官低頭的故事很多人知道。他受審判時，他笑法官不敢判他死刑。他要來看我們，我實在有點担心，他會不會很冷酷、很憤世嫉俗？
他跟我們見面時看到我們那二歲半的女兒Elizabeth躲在椅子後面。過一會兒，我們看他坐在地板上和Elizabeth用台語和華語，還用一點客語交談起來。後來他也幫我準備我在神學院的教課，我們經常在一起計劃要怎麼資助政治受難者的家屬。
一年後，1969年，謝聰敏出獄。他也在大約一個禮拜後來我們家。魏廷朝已和他提過資助受難者家屬的事，他說他要馬上開始做這件事，我簡直不敢相信。他剛出獄，馬上就要做這高危險性的事--把我們從國外募到的錢，發放給全島政治受難者的家屬。這在戒嚴法處刑是相當重的，但他和魏廷朝對這種風險一笑置之。他們說因為他們兩人認識這些家屬，也能得到他們的信賴。
資助的工作在一個禮拜內就開始。為了討論事情的方便，我們替他們三個人起了英文名字而不用真姓名。彭教授叫Peter(彼得)、魏廷朝叫Matthew(馬太)、謝聰敏叫Tony(東尼)。
和他們一起所做的事，跟我們當初認識彭教授時的想法相當一致。因為我們夫婦是美國人，我們想，如果被當局察覺，最多是被驅逐出境，而台灣人就不一樣了，他們 的後果可能是下獄、被刑求、甚至處死。因為我們是沒經驗的生手，所以我們決定只跟坐過牢，又有覺悟要付代價的台灣人一起做。在後來的日子，我們所遭遇的， 有時我們覺得我們這二隻「撲火飛蛾」，以為只會被驅逐出境的想法會不會太天真了一點。事實證明，我們的推算沒錯，可悲的是那些和我們共事的台灣朋友，我們的推測也沒有錯。
當我們知道彭教授有可能被暗殺時，我們決定要幫他逃離台灣。他於1970年1月3日打扮成一個嬉皮歌手，從松山機場搭日航到香港轉往瑞典。一直到1990年 代，我們夫婦幫彭先生離開台灣的事公開出來，(我們怎麼做的細節是到2003年才公開)，國民黨、中共和美國國務院都不知道這是我們幹的。之前他們都一直 想知道。
魏和謝都不知道這件事。我們知道國民黨一定會懷疑他們，我們不想增加他們的負擔，這不是我們不信任他們，而是我們知道他們所冒的險已經夠大了。
一 年後，1971年2月3日，我們夫婦被軟禁的前一個禮拜，魏和謝被捉。我們先前所推測和我們在一起的台灣人可能遭遇的，完全正確。他們被捉的十三個月以 後，才被秘密審訊，判刑十五年，後來刑期減半，兩人都慘遭刑求。我們知道他們的受審與刑求，因為謝聰敏設法偷渡一封信給我們，我們把信轉給紐約時報，他們 在1972年4月24日的「讀者投書」登載出來。
他 們第二次出獄後，謝聰敏到南加州住一陣子，魏廷朝則因為1979年12月10日的「美麗島事件」再度被捕，又判了八年徒刑。1987年戒嚴法廢除後，他們 兩人繼續為台灣人民奉獻心力。雖然受被刑求的陰影所苦楚，謝聰敏當立法委員、國策顧問，更不遺餘力地把「白色恐怖」受害者的名單及他們受苦的情形公諸於 世，並持續幫助政治受難者。魏廷朝也一樣，在1997年，他出版了「1949-1996台灣人權報告書」，他成年以後的大半的時因都在牢裡度過。1999 年12月28日，在晨跑時，他那顆愛台灣的心停止跳動，驟然去世。
據我所知，彭教授、魏廷朝和謝聰敏都沒有特別強烈的宗教信仰，但他們卻活出了最崇高基督教所強調的公義與愛心。我在他們身上看到了我從小就在聽的耶穌的比喻「好撒瑪利亞人」。
1964 年3月27日，我在波士頓準備要去台灣。在「波士頓地球報」讀到一則新聞：「珍諾比斯兇殺案」。那是二個禮拜前發生在紐約皇后區的事，有個女人，珍諾比斯 (Kitty Genovese)在她家們前被殺，兇手持續刺殺她三十分鐘，她大聲呼救，鄰居都聽到，但沒有一個人幫她。直到兇手離去，十分鐘後又回來了 斷她的生命，才有人打電話報警。這個事件當時轟動全美，大家都在問：「為什麼會這樣？」
「旁觀者效應」或「珍諾比斯症候群」成為社會心理現象的名詞，意思是說有人遇到危險，旁邊的人都袖手旁觀、視若無睹。
那時我才到波士頓不久，我可以批評說皇后區珍諾比斯那些鄰居「他們」是多麼可恥、多麼不應該。但是「他們」可能是「我」。我也想到，在那民權運動、反戰運動 最激烈的時候，我要離開美國，我會不會也是「他們」？我並沒有因而留下來，我還是去台灣。當我漸漸瞭解台灣的情況時，我無法瞭解為什麼在台的宣教師、美國 學生、軍人和使館人員，看到國民黨的暴行，聽到台灣人的呼喊，還能無動於衷？這和珍諾比斯的鄰居有什麼差別？
有人告訴我們：「不要忘了你們只是在這個國家作客。」意思是勸告我們不要介入其他國家的政治。這個原則在國際關係可能有點道理，但這只是在保持現狀的原則。 即使國際關係必須有這個原則，這原則本質上還是不符合道德正義的。殘暴的蔣政權能隨心所欲在台灣橫行無阻，就是因為美國政府的撐腰使然。我愛我的國家，我 珍惜教會派我到台灣做宣教的工作，但是我的良知不允許我袖手旁觀。如果我們什麼都不做，我們夫婦認為我們是在同意美國政府支持蔣政權。基於我們的信仰，我們選擇有所作為。
我想彭教授、謝聰敏和魏廷朝大概不知道珍諾比斯的事，但他們一定不能忍受她那些鄰居見死不救的態度。我相信他們也會了解幾個禮拜前，在猶他州的一群人，為了搶救一個壓在著火汽車底下的人，冒著他們生命危險，齊力抬起那輛汽車，救出那個人的勇敢與愛心的行為。彭教授他們三個人冒著生命的危險，為的是要幫助、關懷別人。他們的所作所為會傳承下去，我相信他們的良知與勇氣不會落空。台灣、美國，乃至全世界需要這種良知與道德勇氣。
Thursday, October 20, 2011
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
Sunday, October 16, 2011
FAPA - OC 2011 Annual Meeting report
It was a great privilege to welcome our distinguished guests: Dr. Thornberry, Dr. Thomas, and FAPA President Bob Yang to the FAPA-California, Orange County
Many thanks to Nick Wu, our Chapter Vice President, for conceiving the idea and Mr. Wencheng Lin of Pacific Times for his tireless efforts, Board directors and volunteers’ preparation, Los Angeles Chapter and San Diego Chapter’s support in making this possible.
Many thanks to Nick Wu, our Chapter Vice President, for conceiving the idea and Mr. Wencheng Lin of Pacific Times for his tireless efforts, Board directors and volunteers’ preparation, Los Angeles Chapter and San Diego Chapter’s support in making this possible.
A Congressional Certificate of Recognition was issued by Congressman Ed Royce to the honorees for their extraordinary courage towards human rights and the people of Taiwan
Wang-Wang Chan
President, FAPA-CA. OC
Allow me to use my opening remarks as a prelude for the event:
On behalf of FAPA Orange County Kansas
We'd also like to welcome Ted and Bernice Anderson and their church friends for being here today. There are so many other distinguished guests here among us tonight and I wish I could recognize you all one-by-one. So let me just say that all of you are our distinguished guests and I can't begin to thank you for being here , some traveling very long distances for this very special evening.
I came to
You might have read or heard through the media recently the unimaginable horror stories from Mexico, Libya, North Korea and China to just name a few ---the ruthlessness, unlawfulness, and violation of human rights--there are people suffering around the world at this very moment. It makes me more so appreciative of how lucky we are here in
“Fireproof Moth” copies are still available for sale @ $15 per copy,
please call Nick Wu @ 949-351-9314 or One One @714-693-1346
please call Nick Wu @ 949-351-9314 or One One @714-693-1346
“Thank You, Milo , and Judith”
In Honor of Milo Thornberry & Judith Thomas
October 8th, 2011, Saturday at 5pm
Atrium Hotel - 18700 MacArthur Blvd. , Irvine , CA 92612
On January 2nd, 1970, while Professor Peng Ming-Min was under house arrest by the Chinese Nationalist Party (KMT) regime of Chiang Kai-shek (蔣介石), missionaries Milo and Judith Thornberry carefully orchestrated his escape. How they managed to escape the tight surveillance of the KMT is a mystery to all. It wasn’t until December 2003 that the couple disclosed their involvement in Peng’s escape. In 2009 Professor Peng published “A Perfect Escape,” in which he detailed the Thornberry’s crucial role in his escape. During this time, the couple also helped channel support from overseas to families of political prisoners. They were arrested in 1971, expelled from Taiwan , blacklisted by the U.S.
Rev. Thornberry recently published “Fireproof Moth” recounting his experience of White Terror during his stay in Taiwan, and disclosing his role in Professor Peng‘s escape from Taiwan under the KMT.
We hope you can join us for this truly special event. It will be a rare opportunity to hear Milo and Judith speak in person about the rescue. They put their lives on the line and walked hand in hand with the Taiwanese people during the darkest time in the history of Taiwan Taiwan
This event is organized by FAPA Orange County Chapter, Co-sponsored by FAPA Los Angeles and San Diego Chapters.
This event is organized by FAPA Orange County Chapter, Co-sponsored by FAPA Los Angeles and San Diego Chapters.
Saturday, October 15, 2011
FAPA - OC elected officials for 2011-2013
公佈選舉結果
election result for 2012-2014term:
election result for 2012-2014term:
- President: Josephine Yang 黃河芬
- Re-elected/兩年任期:
Wang-Wang Chan 陳婉婉, Simon Chen 陳正元, Ching Tsai 蔡清枝, Nick Wu 吳仲輝
- Incumbents/餘一年任期:
Raymond Lin 林瑞明, Fong Tsai 蔡芳洋
- Newly elected/兩年任期:
Gina Hong 廖清冶& Grace Yang 楊詠絮
- Regional Board Directors:
Peter Su 蘇國雄& Fong Tsai 蔡芳洋
By alphabetical order
Saturday, September 17, 2011
Congressional reception FAPA hosted for DPP Chairwoman Tsai Ing-wen was a real success
Dear Members and friends of FAPA OC,
This is the result of years of effort by the staff of FAPA in DC, members and Chapter's grass root work. Thank you so much for your continued support.
Proud to be a FAPA member.
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This is the result of years of effort by the staff of FAPA in DC, members and Chapter's grass root work. Thank you so much for your continued support.
Proud to be a FAPA member.
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September 16, 2011
Dear FAPA Members:
I am happy to report to you that the Congressional reception FAPA hosted for DPP Chairwoman Tsai Ing-wen was a real success. The event took place in the Rayburn House Office Building in the afternoon of September 14. Thanks to your grassroots effort locally and hard work of FAPA staff (Coen Blaauw, Chiao-Jung Wang, Gerrit van der Wees, Jean Wu, Eileen Lin and Janice Chen) at our headquarters, seventeen House Representatives and two Senators came to the reception to welcome Dr. Tsai.
The atmosphere was festive and spirit high as the dignitaries lined up to speak at the podium. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen, Chairwoman of the Committee on Foreign Affairs, enthusiastically greeted Dr. Tsai and took the occasion to announce the introduction of the Taiwan Policy Act (H.R.2918 Latest Title: To strengthen and clarify the commercial, cultural, and other relations between the people of the United States and the people of Taiwan, as codified in the Taiwan Relations Act, and for other purposes. http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/
Our headquarters staff have assembled the following links to YouTube video clips, mainstream TV footages and print media reports. I encourage you to view these items to get a glimpse of what FAPA is doing for our beloved Taiwan. Thank you and congratulations to you for making the Congressional reception a success. I trust you will keep up your hard work for U.S.-Taiwan relations and continue your support for FAPA.
All good things,
Bob I. Yang, President
FAPA
1. YouTube Video Clips:
c. Tsai's remarks - http://www.youtube.com/user/
2. Mainstream TV footages:
3. Print media reports:
a. Tsai holds closed meeting with powerbrokers in US
b. 美眾議員迎小英 喊one china, one Taiwan
c. 兩黨卅多位議員歡迎 眾院外委會給足面子 蔡訪美國會 籲售台先進武器
d. 迎小英酒會 美20國會議員參加
e. 蔡英文訪美國會山莊 獲贈美國國旗
f. 美國會山莊酒會迎蔡 台派社團主辦
g. 美國應售台灣F-16 C/D戰機
i. 蔡英文：民進黨不憎恨中國人
Royce Pushes Legislation to Enhance U.S.-Taiwan Relations
Royce Pushes Legislation to Enhance U.S.-Taiwan Relations
“The Taiwan Policy Act of 2011” stresses political, economic, and security rejuvenation
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, Rep. Ed Royce (R-CA) became an original co-sponsor of Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen's legislation, introduced today, to strengthen the Taiwan Relations Act and enhance commercial and cultural relations between the United States and Taiwan. As the first democratic republic in Asia, Taiwan has proven to be a cornerstone of U.S. foreign policy in the region, and continues to share many common values with the United States.
“Our friends in Taiwan face many challenges. China’s rapid militarization and continued belligerent actions in the South China Sea are a serious cause for concern to Taiwan, and America. That is why this legislation is so timely. We need to bolster our support for Taiwan to promote peace and security in the region,” said Royce.
This legislation takes important steps to bolster U.S.-Taiwan diplomatic relations and Taiwan’s status in international organizations. Specifically, the bill calls for the Secretary of State to endorse meaningful participation for Taiwan at the International Civil Aviation Organization. It also calls on cabinet-level officials to engage in people-to-people exchanges, something that has not occurred since 2000.
“For too long, Taiwan has been left out of international organizations at the demand of China. Despite being home to the world’s 18th busiest airport, Taiwan has been kept out of an organization that aims to keep passengers safe. The 35 million passengers that travel to and from Taiwan each year are done a great disservice by Taiwan’s exclusion,” said Royce.
Trade relations between the U.S. and Taiwan are also a key part of the introduced bill. Significantly, the bill calls for the United States Trade Representative to “resume” Trade and Investment Framework Agreement negotiations with Taiwan and states that a free trade agreement with Taiwan should be the ultimate goal of trade negotiations.
“Both of our countries have built their economies, and their trade relationship, on economic freedom,” said Royce. “We should begin negotiations for an FTA with Taiwan as soon as possible. It’s a win for the U.S. and a win for Taiwan.”
Of concern to many Members of Congress are the consistently delayed defense sales to Taiwan. The sale of F-16 C/D aircraft that are essential in helping keep parity with Chinese air capabilities has been ignored by the Obama Administration.
"This legislation puts pressure on the administration to honor our commitments to Taiwan, and will help ensure that Taiwan has the defense capabilities it needs to defend itself,” said Royce.
Rep. Royce is a senior member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, and is an active member of the Friends of Taiwan Caucus.
-------------------
Office of Representative Ed Royce
“The Taiwan Policy Act of 2011” stresses political, economic, and security rejuvenation
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, Rep. Ed Royce (R-CA) became an original co-sponsor of Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen's legislation, introduced today, to strengthen the Taiwan Relations Act and enhance commercial and cultural relations between the United States and Taiwan. As the first democratic republic in Asia, Taiwan has proven to be a cornerstone of U.S. foreign policy in the region, and continues to share many common values with the United States.
“Our friends in Taiwan face many challenges. China’s rapid militarization and continued belligerent actions in the South China Sea are a serious cause for concern to Taiwan, and America. That is why this legislation is so timely. We need to bolster our support for Taiwan to promote peace and security in the region,” said Royce.
This legislation takes important steps to bolster U.S.-Taiwan diplomatic relations and Taiwan’s status in international organizations. Specifically, the bill calls for the Secretary of State to endorse meaningful participation for Taiwan at the International Civil Aviation Organization. It also calls on cabinet-level officials to engage in people-to-people exchanges, something that has not occurred since 2000.
“For too long, Taiwan has been left out of international organizations at the demand of China. Despite being home to the world’s 18th busiest airport, Taiwan has been kept out of an organization that aims to keep passengers safe. The 35 million passengers that travel to and from Taiwan each year are done a great disservice by Taiwan’s exclusion,” said Royce.
Trade relations between the U.S. and Taiwan are also a key part of the introduced bill. Significantly, the bill calls for the United States Trade Representative to “resume” Trade and Investment Framework Agreement negotiations with Taiwan and states that a free trade agreement with Taiwan should be the ultimate goal of trade negotiations.
“Both of our countries have built their economies, and their trade relationship, on economic freedom,” said Royce. “We should begin negotiations for an FTA with Taiwan as soon as possible. It’s a win for the U.S. and a win for Taiwan.”
Of concern to many Members of Congress are the consistently delayed defense sales to Taiwan. The sale of F-16 C/D aircraft that are essential in helping keep parity with Chinese air capabilities has been ignored by the Obama Administration.
"This legislation puts pressure on the administration to honor our commitments to Taiwan, and will help ensure that Taiwan has the defense capabilities it needs to defend itself,” said Royce.
Rep. Royce is a senior member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, and is an active member of the Friends of Taiwan Caucus.
-------------------
Office of Representative Ed Royce
Team Taiwan” Race for the Cure “台灣隊” 為乳癌防治來健行
Dear members and friends,
竭誠邀請鄉親共襄盛舉參與這個有意義的活動.
--------------------
Team Taiwan” Race for the Cure
“台灣隊” 為乳癌防治來健行
--------------------
Team Taiwan” Race for the Cure
“台灣隊” 為乳癌防治來健行
竭誠邀請台美鄉親共襄盛舉參與這個有意義的活動，
既可幫助乳癌研究募款，又可增加台灣的知名度。
請到下列網站註冊 www.komenoc.org
Please note that there's early bird special: register by 06/30/2011 is $30 instead of $35. Senior (65+) is always $25. Thanks.
既可幫助乳癌研究募款，又可增加台灣的知名度。
請到下列網站註冊 www.komenoc.org
Please note that there's early bird special: register by 06/30/2011 is $30 instead of $35. Senior (65+) is always $25. Thanks.
******
Susan G Komen for the cure 是美國知名的乳癌研究機構， 自1982年迄今，該組織已投資近15億美元， 每年並在全美各地發起 “Komen Race for the Cure” 為乳癌的研究、防治及教育募款。Komen 是世界最大的乳癌防治組織之一，北美洲台灣婦女會以 “Team Taiwan”之名參加此活動已有多年，
˙日期: 2011年9月25日（禮拜日）（當天全部活動時間自早上7點
˙台灣隊時間: 9:15am 在起點集合（請 arrive Parking areas before 8 am, and then take shuttles or walk to the starting point)
˙集合地點: Newport Beach Marriott Hotel 前面, 900 Newport Center Dr., Newport Beach, CA
參行者請到下列網站註冊: www.komenoc.org, 進入網站後請點選 “Race for the Cure”，之後點選 “Register Here”， 之後點選 “Join a team”，之後點選 “Team Taiwan #1754” (並請點選 9:45am 5K Run/Walk)，完成註冊手續。參加健行註冊費: 成人 $35，長輩 (65+) $25，高中以下$25.
For Parking and Shuttles Information, please see the attachment
聯絡:
Bertha Huang (李碧娥) 562-547-2618，
Nami Yang (李淑櫻) 562-907-6876
Lynn Wen (626) 236-8559
主辦單位 : 北 美 洲 台 灣 婦 女 會 南 加 州 分 會
Susan G Komen for the cure 是美國知名的乳癌研究機構， 自1982年迄今，該組織已投資近15億美元， 每年並在全美各地發起 “Komen Race for the Cure” 為乳癌的研究、防治及教育募款。Komen 是世界最大的乳癌防治組織之一，北美洲台灣婦女會以 “Team Taiwan”之名參加此活動已有多年，
˙日期: 2011年9月25日（禮拜日）（當天全部活動時間自早上7點
˙台灣隊時間: 9:15am 在起點集合（請 arrive Parking areas before 8 am, and then take shuttles or walk to the starting point)
˙集合地點: Newport Beach Marriott Hotel 前面, 900 Newport Center Dr., Newport Beach, CA
參行者請到下列網站註冊: www.komenoc.org, 進入網站後請點選 “Race for the Cure”，之後點選 “Register Here”， 之後點選 “Join a team”，之後點選 “Team Taiwan #1754” (並請點選 9:45am 5K Run/Walk)，完成註冊手續。參加健行註冊費: 成人 $35，長輩 (65+) $25，高中以下$25.
For Parking and Shuttles Information, please see the attachment
聯絡:
Bertha Huang (李碧娥) 562-547-2618，
Nami Yang (李淑櫻) 562-907-6876
Lynn Wen (626) 236-8559
主辦單位 : 北 美 洲 台 灣 婦 女 會 南 加 州 分 會
Co-sponsor: FAPA Orange County Chapter
----------------
Dear all,
Please see the Flyers for Team Taiwan Race for the Cure Event. Please help spread the words, invite friends and bring the whole family to participate. Let's make this a very memorable event!
Our Team Taiwan will meet at 9:15 am in front of Newport Beach Marriott Hotel, the starting point of the Race Course.
Dear all,
Please see the Flyers for Team Taiwan Race for the Cure Event. Please help spread the words, invite friends and bring the whole family to participate. Let's make this a very memorable event!
Our Team Taiwan will meet at 9:15 am in front of Newport Beach Marriott Hotel, the starting point of the Race Course.
Please use the parking areas indicated on the map (see attachment for the details) and Shuttles will be provided to the Race Course. We recommend using the Corporate Plaza Parking area (PCH and Newport Center Dr.), then just walk to the starting point, no need to take shuttles. Please arrive at the parking areas by 8 am to allow enough time for parking, walking, taking shuttle, visiting booths for
all kinds of goodies. Thanks you for all your support and see you Sunday 9/25/2011.
Best
Regards,
Bertha Huangall kinds of goodies. Thanks you for all your support and see you Sunday 9/25/2011.
Best
Regards,
Team Taiwan 2011
Friday, September 9, 2011
Announcement from FAPA At-Large Election Committee
Dear FAPA boards and members,
After August 20 postmark deadline in registering in FAPA At-large election, the election committee received 15 qualified members' applications and confirmed their candidacies.
For "go-green" reason, all candidates introduction and platform had been uploaded in FAPA website. You could find it from the link;
http://fapa.org/new/libraries/board/2011_introduction_platform.pdf
In addition, there are only 15 registered candidates running for 19 at-large board seats. Therefore, for saving resources of postage and manpower, the election committee decided not to send out ballots to all active members for vote and announced those 15 qualified candidates elected to be 2012-2013 FAPA At-large board members. Two-year team starts from November 1, 2011.
You could find the announcement from committee from FAPA website or following link:
http://fapa.org/new/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=80:fapa-at-large-election&catid=45:fapa-board&Itemid=44
Congratulations in those 15 board members and thank you for your willing to serve in FAPA.
Best Regards,
Chiao-jung
FAPA Headquarters, Washington,D.C.
After August 20 postmark deadline in registering in FAPA At-large election, the election committee received 15 qualified members' applications and confirmed their candidacies.
For "go-green" reason, all candidates introduction and platform had been uploaded in FAPA website. You could find it from the link;
http://fapa.org/new/libraries/board/2011_introduction_platform.pdf
In addition, there are only 15 registered candidates running for 19 at-large board seats. Therefore, for saving resources of postage and manpower, the election committee decided not to send out ballots to all active members for vote and announced those 15 qualified candidates elected to be 2012-2013 FAPA At-large board members. Two-year team starts from November 1, 2011.
You could find the announcement from committee from FAPA website or following link:
http://fapa.org/new/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=80:fapa-at-large-election&catid=45:fapa-board&Itemid=44
Congratulations in those 15 board members and thank you for your willing to serve in FAPA.
Best Regards,
Chiao-jung
FAPA Headquarters, Washington,D.C.
Friday, August 26, 2011
Friday, August 19, 2011
Senate Taiwan Caucus Co-Chairs Will Not Support a Decision that Does not Include New Airplanes for Taiwan
The decision to proceed only with an F-16 A/B upgrade would fail to address Taiwan’s need for new combat aircraft to meet the growing threat from China and cost manufacturing jobs in the U.S.
WASHINGTON – In May, Senators Menendez and Inhofe, co-chairs of the Senate Taiwan Caucus, led an effort backed by 45 members of the United States Senate in support of the U.S. sale of 66 F-16 C/D aircraft to Taiwan. In response to unofficial reports that the Administration will only offer a retrofit package for older F-16A/Bs, the co-chairs stated that a decision that does not include new airplanes is unacceptable.
While China is in the process of deploying next generation Chinese and Russian manufactured ships, fighter aircraft, and submarines, Taiwan is losing the qualitative advantage in defensive arms that has long served as its primary military deterrent. Limiting U.S. assistance only to upgrades of Taiwan’s existing F-16 A/B fighters would exacerbate both near and long term air-to-air challenges since a substantial number of Taiwan’s deployed F-16 A/Bs would have to be removed from service in order to undergo upgrades.
“An announcement by the Obama Administration that it is willing to proceed with the upgrade of Taiwan’s F-16 A/Bs would not be a new commitment,” Senator Menendez said. “Providing the military resources Taiwan needs is in the vital security interest of Taiwan, the national security interest of the United States, and is compelled by the Taiwan Relations Act.”
“In addition to enhancing Taiwan’s security, this sale would infuse billions of dollars into the U.S. economy, sustain and generate thousands of well-paying American manufacturing jobs including 750 in New Jersey,” Menendez added.
Inhofe, a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC) and Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on East Asian and Pacific Affairs, said, “Taiwan is an important ally in the region. As China upgrades its airstrike capability, it is important that Taiwan be allowed to maintain a strong defense structure. The Obama administration should not kowtow to Chinese wishes that would restrict the sale of the F-16s, and we should move forward with supplying the F-16 C/D aircraft to Taiwan. It is in the best national security interest of the United States and Taiwan, and fulfills our obligations under the Taiwan Relations Act.”
WASHINGTON – In May, Senators Menendez and Inhofe, co-chairs of the Senate Taiwan Caucus, led an effort backed by 45 members of the United States Senate in support of the U.S. sale of 66 F-16 C/D aircraft to Taiwan. In response to unofficial reports that the Administration will only offer a retrofit package for older F-16A/Bs, the co-chairs stated that a decision that does not include new airplanes is unacceptable.
While China is in the process of deploying next generation Chinese and Russian manufactured ships, fighter aircraft, and submarines, Taiwan is losing the qualitative advantage in defensive arms that has long served as its primary military deterrent. Limiting U.S. assistance only to upgrades of Taiwan’s existing F-16 A/B fighters would exacerbate both near and long term air-to-air challenges since a substantial number of Taiwan’s deployed F-16 A/Bs would have to be removed from service in order to undergo upgrades.
“An announcement by the Obama Administration that it is willing to proceed with the upgrade of Taiwan’s F-16 A/Bs would not be a new commitment,” Senator Menendez said. “Providing the military resources Taiwan needs is in the vital security interest of Taiwan, the national security interest of the United States, and is compelled by the Taiwan Relations Act.”
“In addition to enhancing Taiwan’s security, this sale would infuse billions of dollars into the U.S. economy, sustain and generate thousands of well-paying American manufacturing jobs including 750 in New Jersey,” Menendez added.
Inhofe, a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC) and Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on East Asian and Pacific Affairs, said, “Taiwan is an important ally in the region. As China upgrades its airstrike capability, it is important that Taiwan be allowed to maintain a strong defense structure. The Obama administration should not kowtow to Chinese wishes that would restrict the sale of the F-16s, and we should move forward with supplying the F-16 C/D aircraft to Taiwan. It is in the best national security interest of the United States and Taiwan, and fulfills our obligations under the Taiwan Relations Act.”
Sunday, July 10, 2011
A thank you note to Chairwoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen:
Dear Chairwoman,
We, the delegates from the Taiwanese community, were very moved by your speech at yesterday’s luncheon hosted by Congressman Royce, Campbell and Rohrabacher. When most of the world is turning its back on Taiwan, your brave voice to speak up for Taiwan in the Congress, and your staunch support of a democratic Taiwan is a glorious beacon of a glowing light in the dark.
There are no words to express our gratitude for what you’ve done for us.
With the constant threat of a bullying neighbor, we need to work harder to keep the hard earned democracy going. We believe in self determination, peace, and freedom – the same American value that we enjoy today in the US. With the upcoming January 2012 Taiwan presidential election, your timely help will surely boost the morale of the people in Taiwan.
Thank you, thank you, and thank you, Ileana.
Wang-Wang Chan
President, FAPA California Orange County Chapter
We, the delegates from the Taiwanese community, were very moved by your speech at yesterday’s luncheon hosted by Congressman Royce, Campbell and Rohrabacher. When most of the world is turning its back on Taiwan, your brave voice to speak up for Taiwan in the Congress, and your staunch support of a democratic Taiwan is a glorious beacon of a glowing light in the dark.
There are no words to express our gratitude for what you’ve done for us.
With the constant threat of a bullying neighbor, we need to work harder to keep the hard earned democracy going. We believe in self determination, peace, and freedom – the same American value that we enjoy today in the US. With the upcoming January 2012 Taiwan presidential election, your timely help will surely boost the morale of the people in Taiwan.
Thank you, thank you, and thank you, Ileana.
Wang-Wang Chan
President, FAPA California Orange County Chapter
Thursday, July 7, 2011
6/10/2011 Fundraiser luncheon for House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairwoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen.
One One taken taken with Chairwoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen, Congressman Ed Royce and John Campbell
Lee-Ming Chen with Chairwoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Team Taiwan” Race for the Cure"
竭誠邀請鄉親共襄盛舉參與這個有意義的活動.
--------------------
“台灣隊” 為乳癌防治來健行
竭誠邀請台美鄉親共襄盛舉參與這個有意義的活動，
既可幫助乳癌研究募款，又可增加台灣的知名度。
請到下列網站註冊 www.komenoc.org
Please note that there's early bird special: register by 06/30/2011 is $30 instead of $35. Senior (65+) is always $25. Thanks.
******
Susan G Komen for the cure 是美國知名的乳癌研究機構， 自1982年迄今，該組織已投資近15億美元， 每年並在全美各地發起 “Komen Race for the Cure” 為乳癌的研究、防治及教育募款。Komen 是世界最大的乳癌防治組織之一，北美洲台灣婦女會以 “Team Taiwan”之名參加此活動已有多年，在此竭誠邀請台美鄉親共襄盛舉參與這個有意義的活動，既可幫助乳癌研究募款，又可增加台灣的知名度。
˙日期: 2011年9月25日（禮拜日）（當天全部活動時間自早上7點 至中午12點）
˙台灣隊時間: 9:15am 在起點集合（請 arrive Parking areas before 8 am, and then take shuttles or walk to the starting point)
˙集合地點: Newport Beach Marriott Hotel 前面, 900 Newport Center Dr., Newport Beach, CA
參行者請到下列網站註冊: www.komenoc.org, 進入網站後請點選 “Race for the Cure”，之後點選 “Register Here”， 之後點選 “Join a team”，之後點選 “Team Taiwan #1754” (並請點選 9:45am 5K Run/Walk)，完成註冊手續。參加健行註冊費: 成人 $35，長輩 (65+) $25，高中以下$25.
For Parking and Shuttles Information, please see the attachment
聯絡:
Bertha Huang (李碧娥) 562-547-2618，
Nami Yang (李淑櫻) 562-907-6876
Lynn Wen (626) 236-8559
主辦單位 : 北 美 洲 台 灣 婦 女 會 南 加 州 分 會
Co-sponsor: FAPA Orange County Chapter
----------------
Dear all,
Please see the Flyers for Team Taiwan Race for the Cure Event. Please help spread the words, invite friends and bring the whole family to participate. Let's make this a very memorable event!
Our Team Taiwan will meet at 9:15 am in front of Newport Beach Marriott Hotel, the starting point of the Race Course.
Please use the parking areas indicated on the map (see attachment for the details) and Shuttles will be provided to the Race Course. We recommend using the Corporate Plaza Parking area (PCH and Newport Center Dr.), then just walk to the starting point, no need to take shuttles. Please arrive at the parking areas by 8 am to allow enough time for parking, walking, taking shuttle, visiting booths for
all kinds of goodies. Thanks you for all your support and see you Sunday 9/25/2011.
Best Regards,
Bertha Huang
Team Taiwan 2011
--------------------
“台灣隊” 為乳癌防治來健行
竭誠邀請台美鄉親共襄盛舉參與這個有意義的活動，
既可幫助乳癌研究募款，又可增加台灣的知名度。
請到下列網站註冊 www.komenoc.org
Please note that there's early bird special: register by 06/30/2011 is $30 instead of $35. Senior (65+) is always $25. Thanks.
******
Susan G Komen for the cure 是美國知名的乳癌研究機構， 自1982年迄今，該組織已投資近15億美元， 每年並在全美各地發起 “Komen Race for the Cure” 為乳癌的研究、防治及教育募款。Komen 是世界最大的乳癌防治組織之一，北美洲台灣婦女會以 “Team Taiwan”之名參加此活動已有多年，在此竭誠邀請台美鄉親共襄盛舉參與這個有意義的活動，既可幫助乳癌研究募款，又可增加台灣的知名度。
˙日期: 2011年9月25日（禮拜日）（當天全部活動時間自早上7點 至中午12點）
˙台灣隊時間: 9:15am 在起點集合（請 arrive Parking areas before 8 am, and then take shuttles or walk to the starting point)
˙集合地點: Newport Beach Marriott Hotel 前面, 900 Newport Center Dr., Newport Beach, CA
參行者請到下列網站註冊: www.komenoc.org, 進入網站後請點選 “Race for the Cure”，之後點選 “Register Here”， 之後點選 “Join a team”，之後點選 “Team Taiwan #1754” (並請點選 9:45am 5K Run/Walk)，完成註冊手續。參加健行註冊費: 成人 $35，長輩 (65+) $25，高中以下$25.
For Parking and Shuttles Information, please see the attachment
聯絡:
Bertha Huang (李碧娥) 562-547-2618，
Nami Yang (李淑櫻) 562-907-6876
Lynn Wen (626) 236-8559
主辦單位 : 北 美 洲 台 灣 婦 女 會 南 加 州 分 會
Co-sponsor: FAPA Orange County Chapter
----------------
Dear all,
Please see the Flyers for Team Taiwan Race for the Cure Event. Please help spread the words, invite friends and bring the whole family to participate. Let's make this a very memorable event!
Our Team Taiwan will meet at 9:15 am in front of Newport Beach Marriott Hotel, the starting point of the Race Course.
Please use the parking areas indicated on the map (see attachment for the details) and Shuttles will be provided to the Race Course. We recommend using the Corporate Plaza Parking area (PCH and Newport Center Dr.), then just walk to the starting point, no need to take shuttles. Please arrive at the parking areas by 8 am to allow enough time for parking, walking, taking shuttle, visiting booths for
all kinds of goodies. Thanks you for all your support and see you Sunday 9/25/2011.
Best Regards,
Bertha Huang
Team Taiwan 2011
Sunday, June 19, 2011
press coverage on the TW hearing
With the Obama administration keeping quiet on what the U.S. should do
about weapons sales to Taiwan and a growing number of influential
figures calling for a rethink of the U.S. relationship with the
island, Taipei could be forgiven for wondering whether it has any
allies left in the big country across the pond.The message from U.S.
Congress: We're still here. Speaking Thursday at the first full
committee hearing of the House of Representative's Committee on
Foreign Relations specifically about Taiwan in seven years, the
Republican chairman of the committee, Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen noted a
"new spirit of appeasement in the air" as she argued the U.S. must not
back down from its relationship with Taiwan due to pressure from
China, and that it should support the island with the sale of new
F-16s and upgrades to its existing planes.Congress is among the
world's most stalwart supporters of Taiwan, and has refused to back
down in the face of recently shifting political winds. Last month, 45
members of the Senate, representing both sides of the aisle, signed a
letter to President Barack Obama urging the administration to sell Taiwan the weapons it has requested.
In addition to reiterating the weapons request, Ms. Ros-Lehtinen also
said Thursday that she would push for new legislation to update the
Taiwan Relations Act. The act, passed in 1979, requires the U.S. to
sell weapons to Taiwan necessary for its defense. Although the
specific details of any new legislation remained unclear, a witness
who spoke at the hearing, U.S.-Taiwan Business Council president
Rupert Hammond-Chambers, told China Real Time that he understood it
would be designed to more specifically address Taiwan's defensive
needs and increase the oversight Congress has on the U.S.-Taiwan
relationship.Speaking at the hearing, four expert witnesses argued
that F-16s, although unlikely to tilt the balance of power in the
Taiwan Strait, were critical to demonstrating the U.S. commitment to
Taiwan's defense and would also be highly useful in the event of a
naval blockade or spats that could break out over neighboring
islands.Taiwanese president Ma Ying-jeou has made repeated calls for
the release of the planes along with other weapons, even as Taiwan's
Defense Ministry announced last week it was cutting the budget
it set aside to purchase new F-16s.One witness at the hearing,
Armitage International partner Randy Schriver, warned about the
"growing influence" of China in U.S. decision making and said it was
"absurd" to think China would change its position on key issues like
Iran, North Korea or the appreciation of the yuan based on a changed
U.S. stance towards Taiwan.He also questioned concerns voiced within
the Obama administration about timing weapons sales correctly:
"There's no right time...these things get backed up and backed up, and
then the Chinese are looking at a much larger package. They (the
administration) need to just, there's not a better way to say it, they
need to be bolder and more courageous and deal with the fallout,
because historical evidence suggests we can absorb the fallout."The
meeting was also notable for the lack of any State Department
representatives. Assistant Secretary of State Kurt Campbell and Derek
Mitchell, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Asian
and Pacific Security Affairs, were originally scheduled to testify,
but did not attend due to a scheduling conflict, according to a person
familiar with the matter. Rep. Dan Burton called the no-show
disappointing and said it represented "an absence of concern that is
remarkable," adding: "I think they were afraid because they don't have
the answers."With the last F-16s scheduled to roll off the production
line in 2013, Mr. Hammond-Chambers warned that new orders might need
to come in as early as the end of 2011. Otherwise, he said, the
production line might be shut down completely - an outcome, others
have pointed out, that would cost the U.S. much needed jobs and lead
to even trickier negotiations over the sale of more advanced fighters.
Although he said the potential shutdown of the F-16 line should not
dictate whether or not to sell the weapons, Mr. Hammond-Chambers
argued it forced a tight timeline on the decision. "It is a
consideration for when you make the decision to sell," he said. "If
you leave it too long, the decision is made for you.""At what point do
you ask whether the administration is violating the Taiwan Relations
Act," he continued. "Only Congress can step in and do something about
that."- Paul Mozur. Follow him on Twitter @paulmozur
Dear all, Below please find
several news coverage on the hearing yesterday:
1. 美議員擬提案 強化台灣關係法
http://www.libertytimes.com.tw/2011/new/jun/17/today-fo2.htm
2. 美議員齊聲要求售台F16戰機
http://tw.news.yahoo.com/article/url/d/a/110617/1/2thiq.html 3.
美議員：台灣的民主比中國槍桿有力
http://www.taiwannews.com.tw/etn/news_content.php?id=1628816 4. 美議員再施壓 促對台出售戰機
http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5iYkU6VB_bYdRO2IkrX7A87dTcUXQ?docId=top0002.110617005005
5. 國會聽證 兩黨促售台F-16
http://www.worldjournal.com/view/full_news/14355432/article-%E5%9C%8B%E6%9C%83%E8%81%BD%E8%AD%89-%E5%85%A9%E9%BB%A8%E4%BF%83%E5%94%AE%E5%8F%B0F-16?instance=m2
6. 美眾院聽證會 議員促售台戰機
http://udn.com/NEWS/WORLD/WOR6/6404123.shtml
Although we are glad that we got all these great friends speaking for
Taiwan, we have to keep pushing the Administration to fulfill the arms
sales package and reinforce the U.S' support for Taiwan
about weapons sales to Taiwan and a growing number of influential
figures calling for a rethink of the U.S. relationship with the
island, Taipei could be forgiven for wondering whether it has any
allies left in the big country across the pond.The message from U.S.
Congress: We're still here. Speaking Thursday at the first full
committee hearing of the House of Representative's Committee on
Foreign Relations specifically about Taiwan in seven years, the
Republican chairman of the committee, Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen noted a
"new spirit of appeasement in the air" as she argued the U.S. must not
back down from its relationship with Taiwan due to pressure from
China, and that it should support the island with the sale of new
F-16s and upgrades to its existing planes.Congress is among the
world's most stalwart supporters of Taiwan, and has refused to back
down in the face of recently shifting political winds. Last month, 45
members of the Senate, representing both sides of the aisle, signed a
letter to President Barack Obama urging the administration to sell Taiwan the weapons it has requested.
In addition to reiterating the weapons request, Ms. Ros-Lehtinen also
said Thursday that she would push for new legislation to update the
Taiwan Relations Act. The act, passed in 1979, requires the U.S. to
sell weapons to Taiwan necessary for its defense. Although the
specific details of any new legislation remained unclear, a witness
who spoke at the hearing, U.S.-Taiwan Business Council president
Rupert Hammond-Chambers, told China Real Time that he understood it
would be designed to more specifically address Taiwan's defensive
needs and increase the oversight Congress has on the U.S.-Taiwan
relationship.Speaking at the hearing, four expert witnesses argued
that F-16s, although unlikely to tilt the balance of power in the
Taiwan Strait, were critical to demonstrating the U.S. commitment to
Taiwan's defense and would also be highly useful in the event of a
naval blockade or spats that could break out over neighboring
islands.Taiwanese president Ma Ying-jeou has made repeated calls for
the release of the planes along with other weapons, even as Taiwan's
Defense Ministry announced last week it was cutting the budget
it set aside to purchase new F-16s.One witness at the hearing,
Armitage International partner Randy Schriver, warned about the
"growing influence" of China in U.S. decision making and said it was
"absurd" to think China would change its position on key issues like
Iran, North Korea or the appreciation of the yuan based on a changed
U.S. stance towards Taiwan.He also questioned concerns voiced within
the Obama administration about timing weapons sales correctly:
"There's no right time...these things get backed up and backed up, and
then the Chinese are looking at a much larger package. They (the
administration) need to just, there's not a better way to say it, they
need to be bolder and more courageous and deal with the fallout,
because historical evidence suggests we can absorb the fallout."The
meeting was also notable for the lack of any State Department
representatives. Assistant Secretary of State Kurt Campbell and Derek
Mitchell, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Asian
and Pacific Security Affairs, were originally scheduled to testify,
but did not attend due to a scheduling conflict, according to a person
familiar with the matter. Rep. Dan Burton called the no-show
disappointing and said it represented "an absence of concern that is
remarkable," adding: "I think they were afraid because they don't have
the answers."With the last F-16s scheduled to roll off the production
line in 2013, Mr. Hammond-Chambers warned that new orders might need
to come in as early as the end of 2011. Otherwise, he said, the
production line might be shut down completely - an outcome, others
have pointed out, that would cost the U.S. much needed jobs and lead
to even trickier negotiations over the sale of more advanced fighters.
Although he said the potential shutdown of the F-16 line should not
dictate whether or not to sell the weapons, Mr. Hammond-Chambers
argued it forced a tight timeline on the decision. "It is a
consideration for when you make the decision to sell," he said. "If
you leave it too long, the decision is made for you.""At what point do
you ask whether the administration is violating the Taiwan Relations
Act," he continued. "Only Congress can step in and do something about
that."- Paul Mozur. Follow him on Twitter @paulmozur
Dear all, Below please find
several news coverage on the hearing yesterday:
1. 美議員擬提案 強化台灣關係法
http://www.libertytimes.com.tw/2011/new/jun/17/today-fo2.htm
2. 美議員齊聲要求售台F16戰機
http://tw.news.yahoo.com/article/url/d/a/110617/1/2thiq.html 3.
美議員：台灣的民主比中國槍桿有力
http://www.taiwannews.com.tw/etn/news_content.php?id=1628816 4. 美議員再施壓 促對台出售戰機
http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5iYkU6VB_bYdRO2IkrX7A87dTcUXQ?docId=top0002.110617005005
5. 國會聽證 兩黨促售台F-16
http://www.worldjournal.com/view/full_news/14355432/article-%E5%9C%8B%E6%9C%83%E8%81%BD%E8%AD%89-%E5%85%A9%E9%BB%A8%E4%BF%83%E5%94%AE%E5%8F%B0F-16?instance=m2
6. 美眾院聽證會 議員促售台戰機
http://udn.com/NEWS/WORLD/WOR6/6404123.shtml
Although we are glad that we got all these great friends speaking for
Taiwan, we have to keep pushing the Administration to fulfill the arms
sales package and reinforce the U.S' support for Taiwan
Friday, June 10, 2011
US Senator sends letter to WHO protesting “province of China” memo
Formosan Association for Public Affairs
552 7th Street. SE. Washington, DC 20003, USA
Support Democracy, Support Taiwan
---------------------------------------------------------------------
For Immediate Release
Washington D C - June 9th 2011
Contact: (202) 547-3686
US Senator sends letter to WHO protesting “province of China” memo
Expressing support for Taiwan’s full membership
On June 2nd 2011, US Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH) sent a letter to World Health Organization (WHO) director general Margaret Chan expressing concern about the internal memo which recently became public in Taiwan, in which the organization instructed its institutions to refer to Taiwan as “province of China.”
In the letter, Senator Brown stated that by implying that Taiwan is a “province of China” the WHO “…is going beyond its mandate as the world global health authority and is in violation of US policy.”
Senator Brown added: “I am concerned that the WHO has unwittingly entered into dangerous political waters that are contrary to its mission and detrimental to its goals. The WHO is not a political authority within the UN and should not act as such.”
The Ohio senator, who has long advocated Taiwan’s full membership in all international organizations, including the United Nations and the WHO, concluded: “As a strong supporter of your organization I have always believed that the WHO is a universal organization and that it should therefore open its doors to all members of the world community, including Taiwan.”
FAPA President Bob Yang commented in a reaction: "Senator Brown is hitting the nail right on the head: the WHO internal memo is not in keeping with the basic principle of universality for which the WHO should stand. It relegates Taiwan to a secondary status as a subsidiary of China, which is a violation of US policy as laid down in the Taiwan Relations Act.”
Dr. Yang added: “The memo has brought to light the fallacy of the approach by the Ma Ying-jeou administration in Taiwan to participation in international organizations. In 2009, it presented its observership as a major “breakthrough”, but now we find out that it came at the cost of Taiwan’s sovereignty as a free and democratic nation.”
Dr. Yang concluded: “We hope that both the WHO and the US government will from now on adhere to the basic principle of universality and support Taiwan’s full membership in international organizations. Taiwan is a free and democratic nation and deserves to be treated like all other nations in the world.”
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
美參議員致函世衛組織 抗議「中國省份」密件
對台灣成為正式會員表支持
美國俄亥俄州民主黨參議員布朗(Senator Sherrod Brown)，於2011年6月2日致函世界衛生組織幹事長陳馮富珍女士，就最近在台灣揭露的世衛內部密件，指示相關單位稱呼台灣為「中國的省分」乙事，表達抗議。
信中，參議員布朗表示，世衛組織將台灣暗指為「中國的省分」，「超過了其身為世界衛生機構的權限，並違反了美國的政策。」
他並指出:「我擔憂，世衛組織在不知情的狀況下，進入了危險的政治水域，違背其任務及對推展其目標不利。世衛組織非聯合國之下的政治機構，也不應涉及相關事務。」
來自俄亥俄州的參議員布朗，一直以來都支持台灣，在所有國際組織中獲得正式會員資格，包括聯合國及世衛組織。他在信末表示:「身為世衛組織的強力支持者，我總相信世衛組織是一個普世的組織，也因此，它應該要對這個世界村的所有成員表示歡迎，包括台灣。」
台灣公共人事務會會長楊英育對此表示：「參議員布朗的話一針見血:世衛組織的內部密件違背其應該代表的基本普世原則。它將台灣貶為次等的地位，成為中國的省分之一，而這違反了美國政策中的台灣關係法。」
他並補充:「這份備忘錄將台灣馬政府在台灣參與國際組織上使用的謬誤方法，顯露出來。2009年，馬政府將台灣獲觀察員的，為『重大進展』。但現在我們發現，這是以自由民主國家台灣的主權去換來的。」
楊會長最後指出：「我們希望，世衛組織及美國政府從今以後遵守基本普世原則，並支持台灣在國際組織的正式會員資格。台灣是一個自由民主的國家，值得擁有與其他國家平起平坐的待遇。」
* * * * * * * * * * *
552 7th Street. SE. Washington, DC 20003, USA
Support Democracy, Support Taiwan
---------------------------------------------------------------------
For Immediate Release
Washington D C - June 9th 2011
Contact: (202) 547-3686
US Senator sends letter to WHO protesting “province of China” memo
Expressing support for Taiwan’s full membership
On June 2nd 2011, US Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH) sent a letter to World Health Organization (WHO) director general Margaret Chan expressing concern about the internal memo which recently became public in Taiwan, in which the organization instructed its institutions to refer to Taiwan as “province of China.”
In the letter, Senator Brown stated that by implying that Taiwan is a “province of China” the WHO “…is going beyond its mandate as the world global health authority and is in violation of US policy.”
Senator Brown added: “I am concerned that the WHO has unwittingly entered into dangerous political waters that are contrary to its mission and detrimental to its goals. The WHO is not a political authority within the UN and should not act as such.”
The Ohio senator, who has long advocated Taiwan’s full membership in all international organizations, including the United Nations and the WHO, concluded: “As a strong supporter of your organization I have always believed that the WHO is a universal organization and that it should therefore open its doors to all members of the world community, including Taiwan.”
FAPA President Bob Yang commented in a reaction: "Senator Brown is hitting the nail right on the head: the WHO internal memo is not in keeping with the basic principle of universality for which the WHO should stand. It relegates Taiwan to a secondary status as a subsidiary of China, which is a violation of US policy as laid down in the Taiwan Relations Act.”
Dr. Yang added: “The memo has brought to light the fallacy of the approach by the Ma Ying-jeou administration in Taiwan to participation in international organizations. In 2009, it presented its observership as a major “breakthrough”, but now we find out that it came at the cost of Taiwan’s sovereignty as a free and democratic nation.”
Dr. Yang concluded: “We hope that both the WHO and the US government will from now on adhere to the basic principle of universality and support Taiwan’s full membership in international organizations. Taiwan is a free and democratic nation and deserves to be treated like all other nations in the world.”
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
美參議員致函世衛組織 抗議「中國省份」密件
對台灣成為正式會員表支持
美國俄亥俄州民主黨參議員布朗(Senator Sherrod Brown)，於2011年6月2日致函世界衛生組織幹事長陳馮富珍女士，就最近在台灣揭露的世衛內部密件，指示相關單位稱呼台灣為「中國的省分」乙事，表達抗議。
信中，參議員布朗表示，世衛組織將台灣暗指為「中國的省分」，「超過了其身為世界衛生機構的權限，並違反了美國的政策。」
他並指出:「我擔憂，世衛組織在不知情的狀況下，進入了危險的政治水域，違背其任務及對推展其目標不利。世衛組織非聯合國之下的政治機構，也不應涉及相關事務。」
來自俄亥俄州的參議員布朗，一直以來都支持台灣，在所有國際組織中獲得正式會員資格，包括聯合國及世衛組織。他在信末表示:「身為世衛組織的強力支持者，我總相信世衛組織是一個普世的組織，也因此，它應該要對這個世界村的所有成員表示歡迎，包括台灣。」
台灣公共人事務會會長楊英育對此表示：「參議員布朗的話一針見血:世衛組織的內部密件違背其應該代表的基本普世原則。它將台灣貶為次等的地位，成為中國的省分之一，而這違反了美國政策中的台灣關係法。」
他並補充:「這份備忘錄將台灣馬政府在台灣參與國際組織上使用的謬誤方法，顯露出來。2009年，馬政府將台灣獲觀察員的，為『重大進展』。但現在我們發現，這是以自由民主國家台灣的主權去換來的。」
楊會長最後指出：「我們希望，世衛組織及美國政府從今以後遵守基本普世原則，並支持台灣在國際組織的正式會員資格。台灣是一個自由民主的國家，值得擁有與其他國家平起平坐的待遇。」
* * * * * * * * * * *
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
Saturday, May 28, 2011
45位美國參議員致函歐巴馬總統
Formosan Association for Public Affairs 552 7th Street. SE. Washington, DC 20003, USA
Support Democracy, Support Taiwan
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
For Immediate Release
Washington D C - May 27th 2011
Contact: (202) 547-3686
45 US Senators send letter to President Obama urging F-16 sale to Taiwan
Expressing serious concern about military imbalance in the Taiwan Strait
On Thursday May 26th 2011, a total of forty five members of the US Senate sent a letter to President Barack Obama (attached) urging him to “act swiftly and provide Taiwan with the F-16 C/D aircraft that are critical to meeting our obligations pursuant to the TRA and to preserving peace and security in the Taiwan Strait.”
The Senators expressed their serious concern about the growing military imbalance in the Taiwan Strait and said “To maintain peace and stability in the Strait, it is critical that your administration accept Taiwan’s Letter of Request (LOR) and move quickly to notify Congress of the sale of 66 F-16 C/D aircraft that Taiwan needs in order to modernize its air force.”
The Senators also emphasized that “The Taiwan Relations Act (TRA) of 1979 directs both the Congress and the President to make decisions on arms sales to Taiwan based solely on the “judgment of the needs of Taiwan, …”
FAPA President Bob Yang commented in a reaction: "The F-16 sale is crucial for the defense of Taiwan. China has built up its military force and missiles, and is trying to force Taiwan into an unwanted absorption by China. The United States needs to stand by the freedom-loving people of Taiwan, and help it resist Chinese pressure.
Dr. Yang concluded: "It is in the interest of the United States to stand by Taiwan, as the island nation is strategically located, is a powerhouse of technology, and a beacon for democracy in Asia."
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
45位美國參議員致函歐巴馬總統 對台灣海峽兩岸軍力失衡表嚴重關切 要求儘速軍售F-16給台灣
45位美國參議院的議員於2011年5月26日星期四，聯名致函歐巴馬總統(見附檔)，呼籲他「爲完成台美關係法中，美國應盡的義務，儘速軍售台灣F-16 C/D型戰機，維護台灣海峽的和平與安全。」
參議員們對台灣海峽兩岸軍力失衡表嚴重關切，並表示「爲維護兩岸的和平與安全，貴政府接受台灣的需求意向書(Letter of Request , LOR)，並儘快通知國會軍售66架F-16 C/D型戰機於台灣，以協助其現代化空軍軍力，是非常重要的。」
參議員們並強調，「1979年頒布的台灣關係法，提供國會及總統對台軍售乙事，以『針對台灣是否需要』為基礎。」
台灣人公共事務會會長楊英育對此表示:「軍售F-16給台灣，對台灣的國防相當重要。中國在其軍事力量及飛彈數量上不斷增強增多，並試圖要強行併吞台灣。美國必須與台灣愛好和平的人民站在一起，並協助他們抵擋來自中國的壓力。」
楊會長最後指出：「美國支持台灣，因為該島國的戰略位置、非凡科技成就、亞洲民主的典範，完全符合美國的利益，。」
Support Democracy, Support Taiwan
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
For Immediate Release
Washington D C - May 27th 2011
Contact: (202) 547-3686
45 US Senators send letter to President Obama urging F-16 sale to Taiwan
Expressing serious concern about military imbalance in the Taiwan Strait
On Thursday May 26th 2011, a total of forty five members of the US Senate sent a letter to President Barack Obama (attached) urging him to “act swiftly and provide Taiwan with the F-16 C/D aircraft that are critical to meeting our obligations pursuant to the TRA and to preserving peace and security in the Taiwan Strait.”
The Senators expressed their serious concern about the growing military imbalance in the Taiwan Strait and said “To maintain peace and stability in the Strait, it is critical that your administration accept Taiwan’s Letter of Request (LOR) and move quickly to notify Congress of the sale of 66 F-16 C/D aircraft that Taiwan needs in order to modernize its air force.”
The Senators also emphasized that “The Taiwan Relations Act (TRA) of 1979 directs both the Congress and the President to make decisions on arms sales to Taiwan based solely on the “judgment of the needs of Taiwan, …”
FAPA President Bob Yang commented in a reaction: "The F-16 sale is crucial for the defense of Taiwan. China has built up its military force and missiles, and is trying to force Taiwan into an unwanted absorption by China. The United States needs to stand by the freedom-loving people of Taiwan, and help it resist Chinese pressure.
Dr. Yang concluded: "It is in the interest of the United States to stand by Taiwan, as the island nation is strategically located, is a powerhouse of technology, and a beacon for democracy in Asia."
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
45位美國參議員致函歐巴馬總統 對台灣海峽兩岸軍力失衡表嚴重關切 要求儘速軍售F-16給台灣
45位美國參議院的議員於2011年5月26日星期四，聯名致函歐巴馬總統(見附檔)，呼籲他「爲完成台美關係法中，美國應盡的義務，儘速軍售台灣F-16 C/D型戰機，維護台灣海峽的和平與安全。」
參議員們對台灣海峽兩岸軍力失衡表嚴重關切，並表示「爲維護兩岸的和平與安全，貴政府接受台灣的需求意向書(Letter of Request , LOR)，並儘快通知國會軍售66架F-16 C/D型戰機於台灣，以協助其現代化空軍軍力，是非常重要的。」
參議員們並強調，「1979年頒布的台灣關係法，提供國會及總統對台軍售乙事，以『針對台灣是否需要』為基礎。」
台灣人公共事務會會長楊英育對此表示:「軍售F-16給台灣，對台灣的國防相當重要。中國在其軍事力量及飛彈數量上不斷增強增多，並試圖要強行併吞台灣。美國必須與台灣愛好和平的人民站在一起，並協助他們抵擋來自中國的壓力。」
楊會長最後指出：「美國支持台灣，因為該島國的戰略位置、非凡科技成就、亞洲民主的典範，完全符合美國的利益，。」
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