President Chen Shui-bian this afternoon received Taiwanese community leaders in the United States, and extended his welcome to the guests. The President exchanged opinions with the visitors on various topics.
Excerpts from the President's remarks:
I am very happy to have this opportunity to greet all of you who have lived abroad in the United States. You have actively served our nationals in the U.S., and have engaged in all kinds of public welfare activities. You have rendered your longtime support for the government and have spoken to the international community for the 23 million people of Taiwan. I hereby extend my greatest respect and gratitude on behalf of the government of the Republic of China (Taiwan) to all of you.
An island situated in the west Pacific Ocean, Taiwan used to be one of the strongholds for western democracies to thwart the spread of Communism in the east back in the days of the Cold War. Later, there came the rise of China's economic and military power as the Cold War ended, and the role of Taiwan in international politics was transferred to become a stabilizing force in maintaining stability and peace in the Asia Pacific region. The national security of Taiwan is not only about the welfare and safety of Taiwan's 23 million people, but it also has a direct bearing on the prosperity and progress of the whole region of East Asia. We must take on the responsibility of defending Taiwan as well as contributing to the peace and stability of the region.
I admire you, leaders of the Taiwanese community in the U.S., as all of you have kept your faith in freedom and democracy, and have been undaunted in the face of China's united front tactics. You have constantly supported Taiwan and loved Taiwan, which is something that everyone in this country should learn from. I hope that you continue your support after returning to the U.S., and I wish our country — the ROC (Taiwan) to stay prosperous forever.