President Chen Shui-bian this afternoon attended the 50th Anniversary of the China Productivity Center and extended his congratulations to the organization. He encouraged the center to continue seeking improvement and making breakthrough based on the 50 years' achievement. The President urged the organization to accumulate more energy for Taiwan to develop economy, to play the role model for a knowledge-based economy, to take on the responsibility as pioneer of industries, and to help government as it leads Taiwan's industries to a brand new era.
Excerpts from the President's remarks:
First of all, I extend on behalf of the government our congratulations to China Productivity Center as you enter the 50th years of your establishment. Each of you from industry, academics and government has witnessed Taiwan's economic progress for half a century. The path of your diligent work is clearly marked in the country's economic history. I hereby extend my greatest respect and gratitude to you.
Due to your painstaking efforts, hard work, and contributions, Taiwan's economy has continued to grow prosperously, which laid the foundation for Taiwan's national development. All our industries have transformed and upgraded successfully, with their achievement being acclaimed internationally. They are the pride of the Taiwan people. This is the exact manifestation of what I have always mentioned: "To believe in Taiwan, to insist on reform, to stabilize the society, and to prosper the economy."
Looking to Taiwan's economic future, one of the tasks for the government is to create a favorable investment environment for strategic industries, take on the responsibility of facilitating industrial development, and strengthen industries' ability to innovate so the international competitiveness of our industries can be greatly elevated. The government should lead the private sector to move toward the high value-added industries, and assist enterprises to make breakthrough and to stay outstanding. The China Productivity Center can be one of the government's most important think tanks and a contributor in this endeavor.
As I looked around and saw those banners hanging on the walls that read "Go with vision and mission, and grow with innovation," I think of the "Volunteer Taiwan," a core value of the new century that I initiated when I was sworn in as President in 2000. Economic growth ushers in political democratization, and the society becomes open and diverse than ever. Though free will of individuals gets fully developed, respect, care and thoughtfulness existing among people become weaker and weaker, so does individuals' responsibility toward the society. People must develop the ability to think clearly and logically as well as the ability to respect differences, if a democratic society is to reach stable maturity. Uplifting the spirit of people is indispensable for Taiwan to advance into modernity.
I hope that the vast manufacturers in high-tech, traditional and service industries could accelerate their improvement in innovation, upgrading and transformation with the help of the China Productivity Center. And prosperity and development of our country can be enhanced. I wish your celebration for the 50th anniversary of the China Productivity Center a success and health and happiness to everyone.