Taipei, Sept. 17 (CNA) President Chen Shui-bian vowed Wednesday to carry out reforms and lead the country through the present economic recession to prove he is honoring his commitment to the 23 million people in Taiwan.
The president made the remarks during a meeting with a group of representatives from overseas Chinese communities in the southwestern region of the United States.
Stating that the administration led by the Democratic Progressive Party is set to phase in a comprehensive series of reforms on a wide range of fronts to strengthen Taiwan's democratization and ensure its economic development, Chen said that the process has so far been uneasy but the government will continue working toward its goals.
He said the government's initial achievements must not be smashed because they are the fruit jointly nurtured by the Taiwan people both at home and abroad, which will lay a solid foundation for the country's continued progress, prosperity and peace.
Pledging to accomplish all tasks with the full support of the people, Chen said the government will do its best to defend the Republic of China's sovereignty, dignity and status in the international community, while seeking to improve the domestic economy.
The president also praised overseas ROC nationals as the country's most precious treasure and the front-runners of the government's diplomatic offensive, and he stressed that the government will further step up two-way communication to better serve Taiwan expatriates abroad.
He expressed the hope that the visiting Chinese community leaders will share their Taiwan experience with their peers in the United States upon their return.