Taipei, Sept. 19 (CNA) President Chen Shui-bian said Friday that Taiwan will join up with other democratic Pacific rim countries to form a new alliance to boost democracy, peace and prosperity in the region.
Chen made the commitment in a speech delivered at the opening of the first Democratic Pacific Assembly.
After more than a year of preparation, Chen said, the historic Democratic Pacific Assembly finally kicked off that day for a three-day run.
Chen said he is delighted to see the meeting bring together politicians, scholars and experts from home and abroad to discuss strategies to promote regional cooperation and global peace.
By organizing the conference, Chen said, Taiwan will again demonstrate to the world its determination to join forces with other democratic Pacific rim countries in helping authoritarian countries in the region move toward democracy and to push for the formation of a "Union of Pacific Democracies."
In the last decade of the 20th century, Chen said, the world witnessed the end of the Cold War and a thaw in the confrontation between extremist ideologies.
These developments might have provided new opportunities for the establishment of a new world order in the 21st century, Chen said. Nevertheless, he added, many new problems have arisen to challenge global stability and prosperity. "While globalization has become a prevailing slogan, many people in various parts of the world still lead impoverished lives. The popular desire for democratic reforms has been hindered by official corruption. Industrial pollution has led to the greenhouse effect and climatic changes. And terrorism is threatening collective security, " Chen noted.
Noting that these problems should be addressed through multilateral consultations and cooperation, Chen said Taiwan is sincere in its desire to cooperate with other countries in tackling all relevant issues.
Chen said democracy is not Taiwan's only asset. "Our strategic location enables us to play a constructive role in promoting Pacific rim peace, security and prosperity," he added.
As both an oceanic country and a country of immigrants, Chen said, Taiwan has had special historic developments. "Hundreds of years ago, Chinese people immigrated to Taiwan and have diligently cooperated with indigenous people to create a self-sufficient society. Then came Spanish, Dutch and Japanese colonial rulers. In the process, Taiwan has developed international trade and created a unique culture, which is characterized by openness, diversity, vitality and inclusiveness."
With these strengths, Chen said, Taiwan can play a pivotal role in promoting regional peace, stability and development.