Mr. Speaker, we know this country and its people support the emergence of the democratic process everywhere in the world. We want
to take this opportunity to congratulate the people of Taiwan for the very important step that was taken on the weekend.
The completion of the election provides a basis for the reopening of dialogue between the mainland and the island to ease the tensions that have been there, to begin developing the very extensive relations that were in place before the latest round of problems. We will use every opportunity we have in our discussions with both parties to encourage them to show restraint, to build creative relationships and we will offer all our good services toward that objective.