President Chen Shui-bian met with the winners of the "13th Chinese Architectural Golden Award" on the morning of February 21, extending his appreciation to the winners' efforts in promoting Taiwan's urban gentrification and architectural innovation.
The ceremony was more than meaningful because it took place at the Office of the President, which, according to the president, is "the most characteristic building in Taiwan." The president first praised that the architectural industry, like a locomotive that powered its followers, was considered the pioneer in Taiwan's developmental history. "The development in the architectural industry is the epitome of Taiwan's city and township developments," said the president. "My total appreciation is due."
International and domestic economies are mutually affected. The president analyzed to the winners that, due to sluggish economic expansion and moving out of domestic businesses, the economic growth of the first-half of 2005 was only 2.73%. However, according to the official estimate, the growth rate of the second-half of 2005 would reach 4.83%, which would round up a yearly growth of 3.8%. "It's foreseeable that 2006 will be a brighter year," said the president.
Besides seeing a bright future for the architectural industry, the president also mentioned the importance to pursue "international branding, excellent quality, and aesthetic tastes," emphasizing that the three elements are keys to transforming the real estate industry and adding more touches of charm to urban landscapes.
While encouraging excellent businesses, the Chinese Architectural Golden Stone Award never ceases to promote architectural experimentation and innovation. For this year's winners of the award, the president extended to them gratitude and wished them a prosperous year.