Taipei, Aug. 14 (CNA) President Chen Shui-bian voiced explicit support Tuesday for the proposals to ease restrictions on mainland China-bound investment. "I believe that it's wise choice to replace the existing 'go slow, be patient' mainland investment policy with an open, active and effective management approach," Chen said.
The president made the remarks during a community reach-out tour of the southern Taiwan county of Kaohsiung where he visited several Buddhist and Taoist temples and a large semiconductor company.
President Chen said he himself thinks that adjusting the "go slow" investment policy is "the right path we must follow." "Only when we have confidence can we not be afraid of competition. Like riding a bicycle, we can't limit ourselves to riding in a room. Only when we go outside can we find more opportunities," Chen said.
The president further said he is convinced that so long as Taiwan can adhere to the principles of "Taiwan first, global planning, risk management and reciprocity," it would have a secure environment for sustainable national development.
In this era of globalization, Chen went on, development of trade and economic relations between the two sides of the Taiwan Strait is a prevailing trend. "We can't resist this trend in order to maintain our competitiveness in the global market," he noted.
Nevertheless, Chen said, the government must still exercise prudence in handling relevant affairs because they involve Taiwan's long-term political and economic interests.
Noting that all EDAC members are now endeavoring to forge national consensus on certain critical issues, Chen said he believes that the Aug. 24-26 EDAC plenary meeting would be able to outline clear policy direction and guidelines.
Chen said his administration would also do its best to respond to the demands of various social quarters and continue to improve the domestic investment climate and develop Taiwan into a "green silicon island."