President Chen Shui-bian started his visit to Latin America on the morning of May 4. Before departure, the president said that contact with China is possible only if the two sides of the Taiwan Strait respect the principles of sovereignty, democracy, peace, and equality.
The president therefore emphasized the importance and necessity of a "dialogue" in Taiwan's pursuit of peace and democracy. Referring to China's reluctance to open dialogues with Taiwan's elected government, the president called for talks with China under the principles of sovereignty, democracy, peace, and equality, based on which the president said that any contact, dialogues and negotiations could be set up without limitation.
The president also commented on Taiwan's love for peace and democracy in his remarks. He said that democracy, freedom, human rights, and peace are Taiwan's core values as well as the common belief shared by Taiwan and its democratic allies around the world.
During this visit, titled "Sustainable Peace, Eternal Friendship," the president will visit the Republic of Paraguay, Taiwan's only diplomatic ally in South America and, afterwards, attend the inauguration of newly elected Costa Rican President Oscar Arias.
In order to keep the Taiwanese and overseas audience updated regarding this visit, the Office of the President will post the latest news and photos on its website at http://www.president.gov.tw.