Taipei, Sept. 2 (CNA) President Chen Shui-bian lauded model soldiers Monday for their outstanding contributions to the country and urged officers and men of the armed forces "to fight for the survival of the Republic of China."
He made the comments while speaking at a rally held to honor model soldiers on the eve of Sept. 3 Armed Forces Day.
Chen noted that the ROC has no intention of engaging in an arms race with mainland China, but facing increasing military threats from the mainland, the ROC Armed Forces must build up a self-reliance national defense and step up its military power.
The president said that the government's current national defense policy is to prevent war, maintain stability across the Taiwan Strait and safeguard the security of territory.
He reiterated that the armed forces will not provoke the enemy, but will also not retreat from any challenge.
Following the streamlining program, Chen said that the ROC military has greatly improved its efficiency to assume the duties of protecting the country and the people.
The president added that man is the deciding factor in winning a war although advanced weapons and related equipment are important.
He thus urged the officers and men "to fight for the survival of the ROC and for the welfare of the ROC people."
The rally was held at the Armed Forces Literary Arts Activities Center with the participation of the year's model soldiers and their families. Vice President Annette Lu was also present.