President Chen Meets with a U.S. Congressional Delegation
Taipei, March 27 (CNA) President Chen Shui-bian reiterated Wednesday that national security will not be used as a pretext for undermining or sacrificing freedom of speech.
Stressing that "freedom of speech and national security are equally important," Chen said: "It will take wisdom and time to find a balance between the two." He added that he has faith that Taiwan will develop into a genuine democracy.
The president made the remarks during a meeting with a U.S. congressional delegation that was also attended by Vice Foreign Affairs Minister C.M. Lan and the American Institute in Taiwan's Taipei office Director Pamela Slutz.
Chen also thanked the U.S. Congress for its support for Taiwan, its concern over the security in the Taiwan Strait and the country's bid to join international organizations. He also praised the United States-led war against terrorism, saying that remarkable results have been achieved.
The U.S. delegates pledged not to renounce the United States' commitments toward the people of Taiwan, which they described as "a long-time ally" and a good friend of the United States.