President Chiu; Lord Slynn; Distinguished Guests; Ladies and Gentlemen:
We are delighted that this Conference of the International Law Association is being held in the Republic of China. I am very pleased to have the opportunity to host this dinner to welcome all of you on behalf of the government and people of the Republic of China.
These past ten years, the Republic of China has peacefully and successfully completed political reform while maintaining high economic growth and has accumulated a wealth of "Taiwan Experience." This "Taiwan Experience" has earned the affirmation of the international community, and has been seen as a model for developing countries. What exactly is the significance of this "Taiwan Experience" to the Republic of China and the global community? I would like to use this opportunity to give you a brief outline to help you better understand the Republic of China. On the other hand, it may provide a new dimension for your contemplation on peace, cooperation and prosperity in the world.
There are actually many connotations to our "Taiwan Experience." Economically, after several decades of consistent hard work, our per capita income has risen from an underdeveloped level of less than US $100, at the end of World War II, to the over US $13,000 last year. In fact, whether in terms of GNP, per capita income, economic growth rate, foreign exchange reserves, trade volume, outward foreign investments or technology capabilities, we are at the top ten percent in world standing.
Politically speaking and as many foreign scholars have pointed out, the Republic of China is a rare example of success in the modern history of the world. It has achieved political democratization accompanied by continuous economic growth and social stability. Yet, the Republic of China has formal diplomatic relations with only twenty-some countries as a result of Mainland China's unreasonable disruptions. Nevertheless, the Republic of China has maintained close relations with sixty-some countries with whom we do not have formal diplomatic relations. Furthermore, we have sent 44 technical assistance missions to 32 countries and have extended considerable economic and humanitarian aid to meet our obligations as a member of the international community.
These accomplishments have been completed under circumstances of a densely populated island lacking in natural resources and under long-term and unrelenting military threat and diplomatic containment. For this reason, the greatest significance of the "Taiwan Experience" lies in the fearless solidarity, hardworking spirit, and the ability to overcome challenges through constant self-adaptation of the government and people of the Republic of China.
In spite of this, the Republic of China, once a founding member, is no longer a member of the United Nations and cannot participate in most of the existing inter-governmental organizations. The resulting consequence is that not too many people in the international community know the Republic of China or realize that the "Taiwan Experience" carries immense significance for the history of the world. This point is closely related to the inability of current international relations to manifest equity and justice. Unquestionably, international law is important. However, we believe that the international community should relate to its members not by limiting itself to frameworks provided under traditional perspectives of international law or international politics. Rather, it should also consider the extent to which a country substantively contributes to the global community according to its real and effective capacity and to its participation in international activities.
Hence, the de facto existence and expanding influence of Taiwan in the global community today deserve acknowledgment and welcome. Furthermore, Taiwan must be given an appropriate status in the new world order so as to inject new vitality to the global village of the 21st century.
Ladies and Gentlemen: recently, a severe financial crisis engulfed the Asia Pacific region; many countries suffered tremendous blows. The Republic of China, in contrast, remained relatively unscathed from the crisis as a result of our solid economic fundamentals. Moreover, we immediately offered to work with our neighbors to overcome present difficulties. Here, we would like to point out in particular that the "Taiwan Experience" is not simply the crystallization of the blood and sweat of the people on Taiwan. In the larger scheme of things, it is the collective asset of all humanity. The Republic of China will gladly share our experience with the international community as our contribution to advancing civilization and prosperity throughout the world.
Since its opening, this Conference has made good progress with your enthusiastic participation. I believe that the discussion at this conference will have a profound impact on the promotion of world peace and development.
Lastly, I wish everyone good health and happiness. Thank you.