Taipei, June 28 (CNA) President Chen Shui-bian said on Wednesday that the Republic of China and the United States share common interests in safeguarding Taiwan's security and maintaining peace in the Taiwan Strait.
Chen made the remarks while meeting with visiting American Legion President Alan G. Lance, who arrived in Taipei earlier this week at the head of a delegation of senior executives of the noted US veterans organization.
During their talks, Chen expressed his gratitude for Lance's loud support for the Taiwan Security Enhancement Act (TSEA), which is still pending approval of US Congress.
"No matter whether the bill can pass Congress or not, I believe that all the concern and support expressed in the process of congressional discussion will be the best guarantee to our national security," Chen said.
Noting that improving relations across the Taiwan Strait is his administration's moral obligation, Chen said he has been handling cross-strait issues with great prudence.
"I'm convinced that mending cross-strait difference and maintaining peace in the Taiwan Strait are common expecations of all of civilian Taiwan residents, military servicemen and their families," Chen said.
The president expressed his admiration for the extensive care offered by the US government to its retired soldiers, adding that the new ROC government will continue improving vocational assistance and welfare services for military retirees.
Chen further said he hopes the traditional cordial ties between Taiwan and the American Legion can be further strengthened in the future.
In response, Lance lauded Chen for his efforts to promote cross-strait dialogue. "We hope peaceful cross-strait dialogue can be resumed in the near future through concerted efforts from various quarters," he added.
Lance also assured Chen that the American Legion will continue boosting cooperation with the ROC.