The cross-strait trade development must be effectively managed and systematically regulated with safety valves, President Chen Shui-bian said on May 19 in a meeting with a group of overseas Taiwanese businesspersons.
The president said in the meeting that Taiwan is a small maritime country whose existence and development rely desperately on international trade. Therefore, he added that Taiwan cannot isolate itself from the world and, on the other hand, should not wishfully place all its resources and investments in China.
"The cross-strait trade issue should not be simplified as a dichotomy of either 'opening up' or 'tightening up'," the president said, adding that a balance must be struck "between the export growth and increase in domestic demand."
The president also announced to these overseas Taiwanese businessmen that the government is planning to hold a conference on Taiwan's sustainable economic development on June 18 and 19, expecting support from and participation of all the citizens irrespective of their political party affiliations.
In conclusion, the president thanked these overseas Taiwan businesspersons for their long-time support and wished them greater success in the future.