Former VP Siew readies for APEC leaders’ summit

2015/11/12

Taiwan’s determination to achieve greater participation in regional economic integration will be highlighted at the upcoming Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Economic Leaders’ Meeting, according to former Vice President Vincent C. Siew Nov. 11.

“I will take the opportunity to promote the government’s commitment in pursuing further trade liberalization so as to join multilateral trade blocs such as the Trans-Pacific Partnership and Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership,” he said.

“Participation in these accords will ensure that Taiwan stays actively involved in the study and planning for the Free Trade Agreement of the Asia-Pacific,” he said, adding that Taiwan was invited to join a policy study group during last year’s APEC gathering in Beijing.

The former vice president, who is President Ma Ying-jeou’s special envoy for the Nov. 18-19 meeting in Manila, the Philippines, made the remarks during a news conference in Taipei City.

Also in attendance were Mainland Affairs Council Minister Andrew Hsia, Minister of Economic Affairs Deng Chen-chung, National Development Council Minister Duh Tyzz-jiun and Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Bruce Linghu.

According to Siew, since becoming an APEC member in 1991, Taiwan has actively taken part in programs to advance regional development, especially in fields where the country commands a leadership position, such as small and medium enterprises and innovative female entrepreneurship.

“Taiwan’s achievements in these areas underscore its economic and technological prowess,” Siew said. “Through sharing its successful experiences, Taiwan has been able to contribute to the global community.”

The former vice president said he is looking forward to exchanging views with the leaders of APEC economies on issues of mutual interest. “We will spare no effort in boosting Taiwan’s global visibility and international space, as well as creating opportunities for expanding our involvement in regional integration.”

If necessary, Siew said he will explain to leaders from other APEC members the significance of the first meeting between Ma and mainland Chinese leader Xi Jinping Nov. 7 in Singapore. “The historic event has bolstered efforts to strengthen cross-strait peace and promoted regional stability.”

Source: Taiwan Today (http://taiwantoday.tw/ct.asp?xItem=238757&ctNode=2194&mp=9)