Taipei, Jan. 28 (CNA) "A leader must be a reader," President Chen Shui-bian said while addressing a ceremony marking the opening of the 2004 Taipei International Book Exhibition (TIBE) at the Taipei World Trade Center Wednesday.
A reader, who learns about other people's experiences through reading, is capable of avoiding repeating mistakes, Chen said, adding that those who like to read tend to have better imaginations and more creativity then those who don't.
The president said that although the "cyber culture" and Internet communications are prevalent nowadays, reading books remains the best way to obtain knowledge systematically. Reading books may take more time, but the effects are deeper and more rewarding, he added.
To help nurture a learned population and strengthen the development of Taiwan's publishing industry, the government will continue to render support to the industry so as to accelerate its globalization, Chen stressed.
Meanwhile, Chen also presided over the "First Golden Butterfly Awards" presentation ceremony, handing out five golden awards and 10 honorary awards to winners in book illustration, cover design and sleeve design.