President Chen Shui-bain met with contestants of Down Syndrome International Swimming Championships on October 23, congratulating them on their sportsmanship, courage and firmness. The Taiwan Team broke several world records in the competition, winning 13 gold medals, 9 silver medals and 6 bronze medals.
"Despite their physical and mental challenges and inconveniences, the handicapped tend to be less sophisticated and more attentive than the ordinary people in developing special abilities," said President Chen. He encouraged them to see things from a different angle, so as to live a different life.
He added that it is everyone's responsibility to create an obstacle-free environment. In addition to the effort of the government in promoting social welfare, the concern and participation of all sectors of society are needed for taking care of the handicapped and mentally retarded.