President Lee Teng-hui today made a speech in the opening ceremony of the World Congress of the Panama Canal. The full text of President Lee's speech is as follows:
It is a great pleasure and privilege for me to visit the Republic of Panama and attend the headline-making World Congress of the Panama Canal at the invitation of H. E. President Ernesto Perez Balladares.
The construction of the Panama Canal is a magnificent achievement of modern technology and wisdom. Its historical significance lies not only in the gigantic scale and engineering difficulties in building the Canal, but also in the convenience and benefits the waterway has brought for human life. By shortening the physical distance between the Pacific and the Atlantic, the Canal has made far-reaching and remarkable contributions to world maritime transportation, trade, and economic growth.
By the end of 1999, the Canal will move into another historical epoch when the U.S. concludes its 85-year-long management of the Canal and hands over the administration to the Panamanian Government. We trust that under the outstanding leadership of H. E. President Ernesto Perez Balladares and the concerted efforts of his people, the Canal administration and operation will enter a new stage and will be able to provide more convenient and efficient service to world shipping as well as the global trade.
This Congress is aimed at mapping out plans of sustained operation and management of the Panama Canal for the Panamanian government after the year 1999. All the distinguished delegates here are either government leaders or experts from different nations. By pooling your wisdom and professional expertise, and by exchanging views with one another, I believe feasible conclusions and guidelines will be found that will facilitate better operation of the Canal and meet the future demands of international economy and trade, thereby bringing greater welfare to human society.
The Republic of China stands ready to actively participate in international activities in order to fulfill its obligation in the world community. As a loyal friend of the Republic of Panama and one of the major users of the Panama Canal, the Republic of China sincerely hopes to provide assistance needed for sustained administration and operation of the Panama Canal, and to continue, along with other governments, to contribute its utmost to this endeavor.
Best wishes for a successful Congress and good health to all of you. Thank you.