Ma touts Taiwan’s democratic accomplishments

2014-11-26

President Ma Ying-jeou said Nov. 24 that Taiwan’s constitutional democracy serves as an example for ethnic Chinese societies around the world.

“As the first republic in Asia, the ROC is testament to the success of the democratic process, as well as the inclusiveness of the system,” Ma said. “We believe our democracy can offer lessons for other societies going forward.”

Ma made the remarks while receiving representatives of International Young Democrat Union, a youth organization under the Oslo-headquartered International Democrat Union, at the Presidential Office in Taipei City.

According to Ma, Taiwan’s commitment to the principles of democracy has earned the trust of the international community and helped the nation achieve major breakthroughs on the diplomatic front in the last six years.

“Taiwan is recognized worldwide for its dedication to democracy and liberty, and U.S.-based Freedom House constantly rates it as one of Asia’s best performers in freedom, especially in media independence and press environment,” he said.

Along with viable diplomacy, which Ma has advocated since taking office in May 2008, Taiwan has chalked up significant headway in expanding international participation.

“As a result of our continued efforts, Taiwan has taken part as an observer in the World Health Assembly under the World Health Organization since 2009 and attended as a guest the International Civil Aviation Organization assembly in 2013 after an absence of 42 years,” Ma said.

A totol of 140 countries and territories grant visa-free or landing rights privileges to ROC passport holders, recognizing the nation’s role as a responsible member of the international community, he added.

This healthy state of affairs largely stems from stable cross-strait relations and involvement in regional initiatives such as Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation, the president said, adding that Taiwan’s democracy has contributed to removing obstacles preventing the country from cooperating more effectively with its diplomatic allies and partners.

“It is our obligation to safeguard democracy for future generations and we will step up international exchanges and interactions on the back of this principle.”

Source: Taiwan Today (http://taiwantoday.tw/ct.asp?xItem=224443&CtNode=413)