TT: Taiwan had been inviting the EU to set up an office since 1991. Why did it take so long for the EU to finally set up an office?
McDonald: Quite simply it was a resource problem.
We had to put all our eggs in one basket. Over the last 10 years since the Berlin Wall came down we've tried to help eastern European countries to adapt to the EU so they can become our members eventually. We opened our office here in Taiwan this year, and additional offices in Malaysia and Singapore. We considered it a great pity if we couldn't open an office here, a big trading partner in Asia. So I'm glad that it's resolved now.
TT: What do you hope to achieve for the EU business community in the next 12 months?
McDonald: I would like to see improvements in bilateral trade and hopefully investment as well. But like I said, these improvements require efforts on IPR protection and other issues I mentioned.
In addition, I would also like to help Taiwan to restructure its financial and banking markets. This is really important if Taiwan wants to move to and become a major player in the service sector. In fact, there was some progress made last year as some financial bills went through the legislature. By restructuring banking and financial markets, Taiwan will attract more foreign investments.
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