Taipei, Dec. 3 (CNA) President Chen Shui-bian urged overseas Chinese merchants to vigorously participate in Taiwan's economic development, when he addressed an annual conference of overseas Chinese businessmen Tuesday at the Taipei International Convention Center.
Chen said his government is doing its best to promote economic recovery. In fact, he said, the economy is turning for the better. Citing a report by the Taiwan Economic Research Institute, he said the economic growth rate is expected to jump from -2.18 percent in 2001 to 3.05 percent this year. A recent report by the World Economic Forum also indicated that Taiwan's economic competitiveness in the world is improving.
He lauded overseas Chinese businessmen for their contribution to the development of Taiwan's strength in the world market, and urged them to participate in the economic activities of Taiwan investors and traders. The government is making a great effort to help them achieve their goals in the world market, he stressed.
Chen said that, under the present world economic situations, Taiwan has to promote the globalization of its economy, upgrade its production technology, and improve its investment climate. The government is determined to achieve these goals, he added.