For immediate release

Monday October 24, 2005, Toronto, Ontario, Canada - This week, parliament will be deliberating on a private member's bill, C-357, otherwise known as the Taiwan Affairs Act. This bill would promote Canada-Taiwan relations and secure Canadian support for Taiwan's participation in the United Nations and World Health Organization.

The Formosan Association for Public Affairs Canada (FAPA Canada) called on MPs of all parties to support this bill, proposed by Conservative MP Jim Abbott. "Passage of this bill is long overdue," said Dr. Harry Chen, president of FAPA Canada. "Taiwan and Canada have had a history of mutually beneficial relations, and this bill will foster closer ties between the two nations."

"The passage of this bill would provide clear guidelines for the Department of Foreign Affairs on how to deal with Taiwan, instead of having Canadian policy always kowtowing to Chinese diplomats," added Chen. "Canada should not shy away from cementing relations with a fellow democracy, even if a totalitarian regime like China objects."

"It is important that Canada promote human rights and democracy worldwide," stated David Lin, president of the Taiwanese-Canadian Association. "We urge all MPs who share these Canadian values to steadfastly support this bill."

For more information please contact:
Harry Chen
48 Teddington Ave.
Markham, Ontario, Canada
L3R 6T5
(905) 475-0492
president@fapacanada.org