President Chen Shui-bian on April 25 met with Dr. C. Dean McGrath Jr., member of the Delegation of American Political Elite. President Chen, on behalf of the government and 23 million people of the ROC (Taiwan), expressed a warm welcome and gratitude to Dr. McGrath for making the long journey to Taiwan.
The president said that members of the Delegation of American Political Elite who are visiting Taiwan on this trip have served in the American government, in Congress and in important research institutions. Dr. McGrath was formerly the Deputy Chief of Staff to Vice President Richard B. Cheney, while Dr. David Frum previously served as special assistant to President George W. Bush. He said that they have a deep understanding of the Taiwan-US relationship and cross-Strait affairs. In addition to discussing the Taiwan experience with the guests, President Chen lauded the history of democratic achievements in the United States. He said that these are worthy of study by Taiwan and other democratic nations.
President Chen noted that presidential elections are getting underway in many countries. He mentioned that first round voting in France's presidential election just concluded, and that the second round of voting will be held on May 6. President Chen said that the race, which is featuring heated competition between the left and right, is too close to tell. The election is also garnering attention as Segolene Royal is the first woman in France to run for the presidency. President Chen noted the expertise in international affairs of the visitors and sought their opinions and analysis of various international topics. The president also asked his guests as to their views of the next presidential election in the United States, whether the Republican Party will lose the White House and whether a woman will be nominated to run for the presidency. President Chen said that candidates from Taiwan's ruling party are also gearing up to take part in a primary that will determine the Democratic Progressive Party's nominee for the presidency. He pointed out the fierce campaigning here of the four candidates, noting that one of the candidates is a woman. The president said he was delighted to have this opportunity to listen to the opinions of his guests on these topics.
The guests expressed their gratitude to President Chen for taking time out of his busy schedule to meet with them. They also said they hope to better understand developments related to upcoming elections here on this trip.
Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Chang Siao-yue accompanied the group to the Presidential Building in the morning to meet with President Chen. Deputy Secretary-General to the President Chen Chi-mai was also in attendance.