President Chen Shui-bian called this afternoon a high-level government meeting on the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) at the Presidential Office. The President announced a six-point decision after receiving briefings from related government authorities and holding discussions with participants.
1. We have always had difficulties in involving in international affairs with an equal footing due to China's deliberate suppression and the prevalent practice of not offending China out of self-protection by the international society. Yet we should never be dismayed, and should continue our fight for the right to be part of the world and be seen as an equal partner. In the past few months, China has instigated a series of united front tactics to draw our domestic opposition parties closer to them. China's tough move of blocking Taiwan from the APEC meeting this year exemplified its two-faced tactics: That Taiwan can only go to China, but never the world. So our government must make every effort to let the world see the real face of China and the international community can know the truth.
2. Taiwan's suggestion last year of strengthening R and D and manufacture of contagious diseases vaccines has been applauded by all APEC members. What is also worth mentioning is that to promote world health, safety and welfare, Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has earmarked US$500,000 to be donated to an APEC fund for avian influenza prevention and control. During the APEC Senior Officers' Meeting the United States has mentioned to us twice about the "Regional Trade and Financial Security Initiative." Due to our concern for regional financial security, the MOFA has also prepared another US$500,000 as a donation to help the initiative. If the donation is accepted, Taiwan will become the fourth donor of the initiative, following the U.S., Australia and Japan. To highlight our contribution to the APEC, Taiwan's representative to the meeting is advised to bring up our proposals in the opportune time.
3. We ask that the MOFA, Ministry of Economic Affairs and Department of Health to negotiate and communicate with members of the APEC and to make our position regarding the APEC known by all members. We also hope APEC members could support our proposals, including "building communities and sustaining prosperity" and our commitment to the APEC Digital Opportunity Center. We urge all levels of government agencies to realize these promises that we have made to the APEC, and we shall continue our role as one of the important contributors to the organization. We also support any initiatives that contribute to a fairer treatment of all country members in the APEC. But we staunchly oppose to any arrangement that damages the dignity and rights of our country.
4. The MOFA has been actively seeking for Taiwan's delegate the opportunity to call bilateral meetings with country members to allow deeper discussions with respect to their bilateral ties with Taiwan. We hope that all government agencies and APEC advisors could assist our delegate in the summit and offer professional and viable suggestions in order to bring real benefit to the summit.
5. Our interactions with the U.S., Japan, China, and the host country will be a spotlight in the APEC. We should take the initiatives and seize the opportunities to look for comprehensive dialogues with an attitude that is humble yet respectful. We should let our counterparts understand more about Taiwan's diligent work in the region and friendship.
6. I hope that both the representative and the delegation could take note the conclusions and suggestions made during this meeting to become your references as you head toward the summit.