President Chen Shui-bian bestowed upon Paul Cardinal Shan Kuo-shi the "Order of Brilliant Star with Grand Cordon" on February 16, honoring his contribution in enhancing Taiwan's diplomatic relations with the Holy See.
Cardinal Shan said that the diplomatic ties with the Holy See by no means aim at secular purposes such as political, military, economic and commercial interests; it, however, centers on the universal values of ensuring freedom of religion, protecting basic human rights, defending social justice, and promoting democracy and world peace. "Taiwan is not a member of the United Nations, but our persistent efforts in humanitarian work have earned much respect from the Holy See," said Cardinal Shan. "This is the key factor that enhances our relationship with the Vatican."
The president would have bestowed the honor as early as last May if Cardinal Shan did not humbly ask for postponement. Since Shan retired from the position of Bishop of Kaohsiung this January, the president once again proposed to honor him with the Order of Brilliant Star. Shan said that the honor is not solely for him, but for all the bishops, priests, brothers, sisters and all the clergy that are ordained to serve the society. "We are unworthy servants; we have only done our duty," quoting the Bible, the Cardinal humbly said.
Toward the end of the presentation ceremony, Cardinal Shan thanked the president for granting privileges of permanent stay to the foreign missionaries serving their cause in Taiwan, and last year personally attending the funeral to mourn for the death of Pope John Paul II.