WASHINGTON—Representative Eliot L. Engel, the Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, made the following statement regarding the January 16th general elections in Taiwan:

“I congratulate the people of Taiwan on electing their 14th president and vice president, and ninth Legislative Yuan on Saturday. With the election of Tsai Ing-wen as president and a Democratic Progressive Coalition to the parliament, the Taiwanese people have again shown their democratic spirit and commitment to a free and open society. In a testament to Taiwan’s vibrant democracy, three presidential candidates and 18 political parties participated in the race.”

“Saturday marked more than just an election.  The citizens of Taiwan have once again called for a peaceful transition in leadership—a hallmark of a mature and stable democracy. This is the latest step in a record of achievement for Taiwan, from building an economy that punches far above its weight, to creating the only democracy in the Chinese-speaking world.

“A prosperous Taiwan is deeply important to the United States. We are bound by historic friendship, common values, and strong economic ties. The Taiwanese people have put their confidence in Tsai Ing-wen and the DPP party to lead them in the right direction, and I look forward to continuing the collaborative and supportive relationship with our partner and friend.”

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