10 LC 94 3239

House Resolution 2089

By: Representatives Dollar of the 45th, Burkhalter of the 50th, Smith of the 113th, Byrd of the 20th, Butler of the 18th, and others

A RESOLUTION

Commending Taiwan for its relations with the United States; and for other purposes.

WHEREAS, in March of 2008, Taiwan held its fourth direct presidential election and witnessed a peaceful transition of political power, paving the way for Taiwan as a beacon of democracy in Asia and beyond; and

WHEREAS, Taiwan and the United States are longstanding allies who both deeply cherish the values of freedom, democracy, human rights, and the rule of law; and

WHEREAS, the State of Georgia and Taiwan have enjoyed long, cordial, and mutually beneficial sister-state relations since 1984, a friendship that continues to strengthen with each passing year; and

WHEREAS, Taiwan is the United States' ninth-largest trading partner, and the United States is Taiwan's third-largest trading partner; and

WHEREAS, today, the government of Taiwan has committed itself to achieving peace and co-prosperity with mainland China; and

WHEREAS, Taiwan is an active member in the international community with a long history of commitment to international health and humanitarian aid as well as environmental protection.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES that the members of this body commend and support the democratization efforts of Taiwan and the nation's meaningful participation in the World Health Organization, the International Civil Aviation Organization, and the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this body hereby welcomes all opportunities to develop the special sister-state bond between Georgia and Taiwan, and encourages further cultural, educational, and business exchanges between the citizens of Georgia and Taiwan.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Clerk of the House of Representatives is authorized and directed to transmit an appropriate copy of this resolution to Mr. Larry R.L. Tseng, Director General of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Atlanta.