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)
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Source: Voice of America
.