|
Paving the Way for a Sustainable
Taiwan---President Chen's Inaugural Speech
Heads of States, Diplomatic Envoys and Foreign Dignitaries, Distinguished
Guests, and Fellow Citizens:
Firstly, I wish to thank our honorable guests, at home and from abroad, who have
joined us today for the Inauguration Ceremony of the 11th-Term President and
Vice President of the Republic of China. What we have come together to witness
are the progressive steps of Taiwan's democracy, as well as a story, written
jointly by the 23 million people of Taiwan--one that is extraordinary and truly
remarkable.
On this joyous occasion of national celebration, I will assume the solemn duty
bestowed upon me by the people. At this moment, that which fills my mind is not
eloquent words of glory and exaltation, but rather, weighty thoughts of bigger
responsibility, greater humility, and deeper self-reflection.
In the final year of the twentieth century, Taiwan crossed a historic doorsill,
completing an unprecedented transfer of power between political parties, and
ushering in a new era in our nation's democratic development. In that time of
change over--between the old and the new century--our fledgling democracy found
itself stumbling down a rugged path of trial and tribulation. Taiwan's maiden
voyage into the new century came wrought with turbulence as the old and the new,
the weak and the strong, the emergence of crisis and the rise of
opportunity--all came clashing into co-existence.
In the eyes of Chinese societies and other emerging democratic states, Taiwan's
democracy embodies not merely a democratic experimentation; it signifies an
exemplary success. The standard of democracy achieved in Western nations is the
tried result through the test of time. In comparison, Taiwan's newfound
democracy, after weathering rough waters, has burgeoned into an even more
precious accomplishment. Our experience also serves as testament that democracy
does not come ready-made, nor is it a Utopian ideal. There is no express train
to transport us to the final destination. Democratic advancement occurs only
through constant and gradual endeavor, one step at a time.
In the initial stage of Taiwan's democratization—from lifting of the martial
law, complete re-election of the national legislature to direct presidential
election—we have vested sovereignty with the people and began fostering Taiwan's
national identity. In the second stage, a greater emphasis is placed on the
establishment of a civil society and on the rebuilding of unity through a sense
of shared destiny.
From increased community and civic consciousness to broader participation in
public affairs and national policymaking--including the holding of a referendum,
the rights and duties of citizens in a civil society have been affirmed and
further improved; and thereby, the development towards a more matured, rational,
and responsive democracy. We must seek to establish a civil society, and through
joint participation and collective efforts, to create an identity with this land
and a common memory if we are to transcend the limitations of ethnicity,
lineage, language and culture, and to build a new and unified sense of shared
destiny.
In today's society, issues of identity and ethnicity are a serious matter that
cannot be denied or deliberately overlooked. My colleagues and I, in the
Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) as the governing party, will lead the way in
addressing such issues. We will take the first step and begin with candid
self-reflection.
It was several hundred years ago that the generations before us traversed the
"Black-water Channel" (Taiwan Strait) or crossed the great ocean to find a safe
haven in Taiwan. No matter what year they arrived, regardless of their ancestral
origins and their mother tongues, even in spite of their different hopes and
dreams, all are our forefathers; all have settled down here and together faced a
common destiny. Whether indigenous peoples or "new settlers," expatriates living
abroad, foreign spouses or immigrant workers who labor under Taiwan's blazing
sun--all have made a unique contribution to this land and each has become an
indispensable member of our "New Taiwan" family.
Various ethnic groups, because of their disparate history and distinctive
subcultures, understandably hold divergent views and values. Recognizing such
inherent differences, we should embrace one another with more tolerance and
understanding. The authoritarian government of the past exploited inequality
among different ethnic groups, suppressing native languages and cultures.
Nonetheless, we must acknowledge that except for a few individuals in power,
members of all ethnic groups have been victimized. The February 28 Incident and
the "White Terror," of which the victims include both the "Ben-sheng"
(Taiwanese) and the "Wai-sheng" (Mainlanders), were not historical
representations of subjugation by ethnic groups, rather, abuse of power by a
ruling government.
The fabric of Taiwan society today is comprised mainly of diverse immigrant
groups. It is not a minority-ruled colonial state; hence, no single ethnic group
alone should undeservingly bear the burden of history. Presently, regardless of
one's birthplace--be it Guangdong or Taitung, regardless of the origin of one's
mother--be it Vietnam or Tainan, and regardless of whether an individual
identifies with Taiwan or with the Republic of China, per se, a common destiny
has bequeathed upon all of us the same parity and dignity. Therefore, let us
relinquish our differentiation between native and foreign, and between minority
and majority, for the most complimentary and accurate depiction of present-day
Taiwan is of a people "ethnically diverse, but one as a nation." A shared sense
of belonging has become the common denominator among all the 23 million people
of Taiwan.
This year's presidential election was marked by an exceedingly spirited
campaign, hitherto unseen in history. The close results have prompted opposition
parties to question the process and file legal charges contesting the results of
the vote. As the incumbent president, I have, with the utmost sincerity,
expressed my highest respect for the independence and fairness of our judicial
system. I have also vowed to accept the result of its investigation regardless
of the final outcome. It is my firm belief that abiding by and acceptance of the
rule of law is the only conduit through which we can resolve conflicts--for, if
we were to rebuke the trust placed by the people in Taiwan's democracy and
independent judiciaries, then the end result would be that "everyone loses."
In a democratic system, scheduled elections are designed for the exercise of
sovereignty by the people. They also provide a channel through which popular
will and social values can be regularly reassessed. Fierce competition in the
realm of politics forces politicians to undergo the most direct form of
evaluation, which often serves as their greatest inspiration. My campaign,
likewise, was subjected to rather tough scrutiny during the election, as was my
administration, but we have learned and improved as a result. In any election,
sharp differences among competing political factions are inevitable. This could
include contrasting ideologies, disparity in policy platforms, even variation in
methods used to mobilize supporters. However, a democratic election is not equal
to a "winner takes all" wager; nor should it lead to purposefully fueled
antagonism among voters. The checks and balances system of multi-party politics
constitutes a solid framework for democratic governance. An accountable
governing party and a loyal opposition, together, represent the voice of the
people; both are political assets of a free nation and a free people. Be it the
governing party or the opposition, their respective roles are inherently
bestowed by the people with an opportunity as well as a responsibility.
In my opinion, the ultimate challenge of this past election lay not as much in
garnering a mandate as in the post-election hurdle of how to scale the wall of
antagonism, and, in finding ways to reconcile the deep divide caused by
distrust. We must not allow the narrow margin of victory to become a source of
greater conflict in society. Thus, I hereby pledge to listen, to understand, to
abide by laws and reasoning, and to strive to unify the people of Taiwan--so as
to dissipate the animosity engendered by the campaign and rebuild a "bridge of
trust" between the governing and opposition parties.
Unite Taiwan, stabilize cross-strait relations, seek social harmony, and
reinvigorate the economy. These are the earnest hopes of the people and the
preeminent mission of my new administration. But none of these objectives can be
accomplished through an individual effort, nor can one political party do it
alone. I shall go to the people with my plea for support, just as I stand here
today, calling on the opposition parties and the voices of public opinion to
join me in this historic endeavor.
BELIEVE IN TAIWAN--We must continue to foster national competitiveness and
cultivate an atmosphere of humanitarianism, environmental protection, and
sustainable development. PERSIST WITH REFORM--We shall forge ahead in response
to the people's demand for reform in our political and judicial system, in the
educational system, and in our financial and fiscal infrastructures; for
improvement in the quality of our media; and, for comprehensive social reform.
We shall be empowered by our faith in Taiwan; and we shall persevere in striving
to achieve our goals. The efforts put forth today will translate into an
enduring legacy for the future generations: a just new Taiwan where social
justice, economic justice, fairness in our judicial system, gender justice, and
international justice are realized.
In our face-off with increasingly fierce and vigorous competition on the
international front, coalescing the power of the people and working
expeditiously to enhance the efficiency of government mechanisms--these are
tasks vital to Taiwan's sustained development. Yet, we must bear in mind that
historic and political circumstances confine us to an existing constitutional
framework that now poses the most direct impediment to effective governance.
The Constitution stands as the supreme legal basis of a nation, symbolizing a
paramount contract between the government and the people. Our current
Constitution was promulgated under circumstances that were very different from
the society we know today, and the majority of the articles in the Constitution
no longer address the present--much less the future--needs of Taiwan. The
promotion of constitutional re-engineering and the re-establishment of the
constitutional order are tasks that correspond with the expectations of the
people and are in accordance with the consensus shared by all political parties.
The constitutional re-engineering project aims to enhance good governance and
increase administrative efficiency, to ensure a solid foundation for democratic
rule of law, and to foster long-term stability and prosperity of the nation.
There are many problems in our current Constitution that need to be tackled,
amongst which the more immediate and obvious include: whether to have a
three-branch or five-branch separation of power; whether to adopt a presidential
or parliamentary system of government; whether the president should be elected
by a relative majority or an absolute majority; reform of the national
legislature and relevant articles; the role of the National Assembly and its
retainment versus abolishment; whether to suspend or abolish the provincial
government; lowering of voting age; modification of compulsory military service
requirements; protection of basic human rights and the rights of the
disadvantaged; and, principles governing the running of the national economy.
Indeed, this will be a project of grand scale that is certain to have
significant impact.
To avoid repeating the same mistakes by past administrations--six rounds of
constitutional amendments in ten years time--the proposed constitutional reform
project must not be monopolized by one person or by a single political party,
nor should it be undertaken merely for the short-term. In the future, we will
invite members of the ruling party and the opposition parties, as well as legal
experts, academic scholars and representatives from all fields and spanning all
social classes, to collaborate in forming a "Constitutional Reform Committee."
Our aim will be to generate the highest level of social consensus on the scope
and procedure of the constitutional reform, all of which are to be open to
public scrutiny.
By the time I complete my presidency in 2008, I hope to hand to the people of
Taiwan and to our country a new version of our Constitution--one that is timely,
relevant and viable--this is my historic responsibility and my commitment to the
people. In the same context, I am fully aware that consensus has yet to be
reached on issues related to national sovereignty, territory and the subject of
unification/independence; therefore, let me explicitly propose that these
particular issues be excluded from the present constitutional re-engineering
project. Procedurally, we shall follow the rules set out in the existing
Constitution and its amendments. Accordingly, after the passage by the national
legislature, members of the first and also the last Ad Hoc National Assembly
will be elected and charged with the task of adopting the constitutional reform
proposal as passed by the legislature, abolishing the National Assembly, and
incorporating into the Constitution the people’s right to referendum on
constitutional revision. By so doing, we hope to lay a solid foundation for the
long-term development of our constitutional democracy, and the people's right to
referendum on legislative proposals for constitutional revision.
During the last four years, we have witnessed dramatic political and economic
changes in the world. Taiwan, in the face of a new international order, must
stand firm yet persevere in our ongoing quest to become a better and stronger
nation. We must also endeavor to re-position ourselves in equilibrium between
global competition and international cooperation.
Taiwan's long-term friendship with the United States, Japan and our allies in
the world has been founded on the safeguarding of our common interests. More
importantly, it is an alliance of core values that we share: freedom, democracy,
human rights and peace.
Taiwan's democratic development, and peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait,
remains a focal point of international attention. On behalf of our government
and people, I would like to once again express our heartfelt gratitude for the
friendship that has been extended to us--reminding me of the old adage "together
though apart." The people of Taiwan embrace peace. Needless to say, Taiwan's
national security is of greater concern to us than to anyone else in the world.
Faced with an ever-increasing military threat from across the Strait, it is
imperative for all the people, including political adversaries, to forge a
strong will to defend ourselves, proactively strengthening our defense equipment
and upgrading our self-defense capabilities. It is our sincere hope that our
friends in the international arena will continue to render their valuable
attention and assistance to the cause of peace in the Taiwan Strait and
stability in the Asia-Pacific Region.
Taiwan stands ready to continue in its role as active participant and
contributor to international society--this is the right of Taiwan's 23 million
people; likewise, it is our duty as citizens of the world community. In the
global campaign against terrorism, Taiwan has never been absent. In
international humanitarian assistance efforts, Taiwan has always been there.
Other recent accomplishments include the founding of the Pacific Democratic
Alliance and the establishment of the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy. We can
show a vigorous record of participation in international non-governmental
organizations (NGO's), in addition to our collaboration with other members of
the global village in advocacy and defense of the universal values of freedom,
democracy and human rights.
At present, Taiwan is the world's fifteenth largest trading nation, with high
rankings in international competitiveness. Yet, it took twelve years of
strenuous effort for Taiwan to become the 144th member of the World Trade
Organization (WTO). We are still fighting relentlessly to join the World Health
Organization (WHO). Last year's outbreak of the SARS epidemic has taught the
world a hard lesson, that we are all equals in sickness and disease.
Nevertheless, despite the WHO's creed that health care--encompassing medicine,
public health and disease control--is a basic human right and should heed no
borders, Taiwan remains unjustly locked out.
Not long ago, the European Union (EU) welcomed the accession of ten new member
states. Following several decades of effort, with respect to each individual
country and by the free choice of citizens, the EU has successfully integrated
the common interests of the people of Europe. Such a valuable experience has
far-reaching implications and will impact world order in this new century. From
this we see that regional integration is not merely an ongoing but also a future
trend. This trend, in addition to globalization, has led to fundamental changes
in the conventional thinking of national sovereignty and territorial boundaries,
such that envisioning "universal harmony" will no longer be an intangible ideal.
With the new century upon us, let the leaders on both sides of the Strait, in
striving to attain the greatest welfare for their peoples, heed this new trend
by adopting a brand new frame of mind--together, let us take a fresh,
unparalleled approach in addressing future cross-strait issues.
The peoples on both sides share a common ancestral, cultural and historical
heritage. In the past century, both have endured the repression of foreign
powers and the domination of authoritarian rule. Both our peoples now share an
indomitable resolve to stand up and be the masters of their own destiny, a
sentiment that is worthy of our full, mutual understanding.
We can understand why the government on the other side of the Strait, in light
of historical complexities and ethnic sentiments, cannot relinquish the
insistence on the "One China Principle." By the same token, the Beijing
authorities must understand the deep conviction held by the people of Taiwan to
strive for democracy, to love peace, to pursue their dreams free from threat,
and, to embrace progress. But if the other side is unable to comprehend that
this honest and simple wish represents the aspiration of Taiwan's 23 million
people, if it continues to threaten Taiwan with military force, if it persists
in isolating Taiwan diplomatically, if it keeps up irrational efforts to
blockade Taiwan's rightful participation in the international arena, this will
only serve to drive the hearts of the Taiwanese people further away and widen
the divide in the Strait.
The Republic of China now exists in Taiwan, Penghu (The Pescadores), Kinmen and
Matsu. This is a fact. Taiwan’s existence as a member of international society
is also a fact. Such realities cannot be negated by anyone for any reason--for
therein lies the collective will of the people of Taiwan. A half century of toil
and labor by the people of this land has culminated in what is now known as the
"Taiwan Experience," the fruits of which validate the existence of the Republic
of China and, what is more, have become the proud assets, not only of the
peoples on both sides of the Taiwan Strait, but of all Chinese societies.
History has given rise to the development of two very different political
systems as well as two dissimilar ways of life on either side of the Taiwan
Strait. However, if we make a concerted effort to find some positive aspect of
our differences and commonalities, perhaps we shall discover a wonderful
opportunity, a catalyst for building a cooperative and mutually beneficial
relationship. Taiwan is a completely free and democratic society. Neither single
individual nor political party can make the ultimate choice for the people. If
both sides are willing, on the basis of goodwill, to create an environment
engendered upon "peaceful development and freedom of choice," then in the
future, the Republic of China and the People's Republic of China--or Taiwan and
China--can seek to establish relations in any form whatsoever. We would not
exclude any possibility, so long as there is the consent of the 23 million
people of Taiwan.
For more than a decade, interaction between the peoples on both sides has grown
closer and more intense. This development bears great significance and increases
the importance of furthering cross-strait relations. In the future, we hope to
continue pushing forth current liberalization measures while expanding
cross-strait exchange across the spectrum--from journalism and information to
education and culture, to economics and trade--and to promote the establishment
of channels for resuming cross-strait dialogue and communication. By building
bridges, we will aim to close gaps and establish a foundation for mutual trust.
The first two decades of this century will be a crucial time for Taiwan to
pursue a comprehensive program of upgrading and transformation; it also
represents an opportune moment in history for Mainland China to move forward
with democratization and liberalization. Therefore, governments on both sides
should seize this timely opportunity to take on the challenges of global
competition, advocating for progress and development instead of dwelling on the
impasse of political debate. We have taken note that Chinese Communist Party
leaders repeatedly emphasize the importance of steady development for the
welfare of Mainland China's 1.3 billion people, hence, the espousal of "peaceful
emergence" as its tone for developing international relations. We have no doubt
the Beijing authorities recognize that maintaining the peaceful status quo in
the Taiwan Strait is of vital importance to sustainable development for our
respective sides and for the stability of the Asia-Pacific region as a whole.
It is my belief that both sides must demonstrate a dedicated commitment to
national development, and through consultation, establish a dynamic "peace and
stability framework" for interactions; that we must work together to guarantee
there will be no unilateral change to the status quo in the Taiwan Strait; and,
additionally, we must further promote cultural, economic and trade
exchanges--including the three links--for only in so doing can we ensure the
welfare of our peoples while fulfilling the expectations of the international
community.
As the President of the Republic of China, I have been mandated by the people of
Taiwan to defend the sovereignty, security and dignity of this nation, to chart
our country’s sustainable development, to safeguard peace and stability in the
Taiwan Strait, to seek consensus and garner the collective support of all the
people, and to carefully manage future relations across the Strait. Today I
would like to reaffirm the promises and principles set forth in my inaugural
speech in 2000. Those commitments have been honored--they have not changed over
the past four years, nor will they change in the next four years. Upon this
foundation, my next step will be to invite both the governing and opposition
parties, in conjunction with representatives from various walks of the society,
to participate in the establishment of a "Committee for Cross-Strait Peace and
Development," combining the collective insight and wisdom of all parties and our
citizenry, to draft the "Guidelines for Cross-Strait Peace and Development." The
goal will be to pave the way for formulating a new relationship of cross-strait
peace, stability and sustainable development.
Honorable guests and fellow citizens, if we look at a map of the world, Taiwan,
Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu may seem like a tiny cluster of islands in the margins
of the Pacific Rim. However, if you take a closer look, what you will discover
are orchestral mountain ranges, painted with singing rivers, adorning some of
the world's most bountiful ecological landscapes. Amidst the lush forestry and
abundant wildlife, there is a human chain linking together 23 million warm
smiles descended from an ethnic rainbow, with a history that spans across
centuries and reflects a myriad of cultural heritage juxtaposed with political
evolution and economic transformation-- enough to fill an encyclopedia. Taiwan
is a tolerant, oceanic country, a small but proud island connected to all
corners of the world. Galvanizing these attributes will empower us to expand our
visions and unleash our minds far beyond the horizon.
The story of Taiwan touches people's hearts. But, what inspires awe, more than
its natural beauty, is the coloring that reflects the triumphant experience of
overcoming hardship, trials and tribulations. This is the "Spirit of Taiwan," a
gift passed through the generations, a glow which emits from the faces of the
Taiwan people.
Now, the torch of history has once again been passed into my hand; each of you
also holds the torch in your hands. I have set a goal for myself, that, during
the next four years, I will continue to uphold the principles of sincerity and
honesty, compassion and benevolence, unselfishness and impartiality in leading
our country down the "middle road." I ask my fellow compatriots to stand by me
in this endeavor. I will be counting on your support and encouragement.
I am just an ordinary man. I have always believed that there is no such thing as
a great president, for only a great people can create a great country. Fueled by
the power of the people, let us work together. Together, let us lay the
foundation for our long-term national development--for sustainable democracy,
sustainable reforms, sustainable humanities, and sustainable peace. Let Taiwan,
the Republic of China, work toward solidarity and harmony, fairness and justice,
prosperity and equality. History has endowed upon me this responsibility. It is
a mission entrusted to me by the people.
On February 28 of this year, more than one million people stood on the land of
Formosa, irrespective of ethnic affiliation, age, or gender. Hand in hand, they
formed a mesmerizing "wall of democracy" some five hundred kilometers long,
spanning the full length of the island and completing a breathtaking portrait of
Taiwan. The time has come for Taiwan to stand tall, to reach out with courage
and conviction. Let us mark a sustainable and firm place in the world.
My fellow citizens, let us be thankful for this land and let us pay tribute to
the greatness of the people. We must unite for the sake of Taiwan. Together, we
must defend our Taiwan, as we stride proudly forward into the twenty-first
century. Once again let us hand-in-hand author the next chapter in this most
inspirational story of twenty-first-century Taiwan.
Finally, let us wish the Republic of China great prosperity. And to all my
fellow citizens, dear friends and honorable guests, may health and happiness be
with you always.
Thank you.
|
