Taipei, Feb. 3 (CNA) President Chen Shui-bian said Tuesday that he will think about reinstating Dec. 25 as national holiday, although in celebration of Christmas rather than its original purpose of marking the Republic of China's Constitution Day.
Chen made the remarks while meeting with a group of foreign Catholic missionaries who have contributed the prime of their lives to serving the people of Taiwan.
Chen said he is aware that many Catholic devotees are discontented with the cancellation of the Dec. 25 holiday. "We'll further discuss this issue in hope of forging a national consensus. I'll be glad to see the proposal receive the support of a majority of local citizens," he added.
Noting that the Catholic church has long played an important role in Taiwan's development and modernization, Chen said he appreciates the devoted services of the large number of foreign Catholic missionaries to the people of Taiwan over the decades.
In addition, Chen said, many Catholic priests have helped promote Taiwan's cultural exchanges with other countries as well as assist in the preservation and dissemination of Taiwan's cultural legacies, including publishing important dictionaries, translating the Bible and preserving the languages and cultures of Taiwan's aboriginal tribes.
Chen further said he admires Pope John Paul II's efforts to promote world peace. "I fully support the pope's appeal in his 2004 World Peace Day message that leaders of countries around the world are obligated to promote peace and that a new world order should be based on concern, justice and morals," he added.
The president said he believes that promoting a culture of peace and creating a goodwill and reconciliatory environment are crucial to maintaining peace across the Taiwan Strait and ensuring regional stability and prosperity. He assured the Catholic missionaries that he will lead Taiwan along the "road of democracy and peace."
During the meeting, Chen also promised that the Cabinet will use its reserve funds to pay for the NT$10,000 service fee for each foreign missionary who applies for permanent residency in Taiwan. "Money is not a problem. The government should pay the charge to show its gratitude for foreign clergymen who have dedicated themselves to working for Taiwan throughout the years," he added.