Premier Chang visits soldiers on Pratas Island

Premier Chang Chun-hsiung (張俊雄) yesterday visited Pratas Island, an atoll islet located in the northernmost part of the South China Sea between Hong Kong and the Philippines.

Extending holiday greetings to army personnel stationed there, Chang said peaceful means should be used to resolve a territorial dispute over the islet.

In addition, Chang said neighboring countries should work together to develop the islet's marine biological resources, including coral reefs and fishing.

Accompanied by Vice Premier Lai In-jaw (賴英照) and other Cabinet members, Chang received a defense briefing and urged soldiers to strengthen the nation's southern boundary.

He also extended President Chen Shui-bian's (陳水扁) greetings to hundreds of soldiers on the remote island.

According to the islet's commanding officer, the army's living conditions on Pratas have been greatly improved, but the lack of sufficient drinking water, electricity and medical facilities remains a problem.

Chang asked the officers to look after the soldiers' welfare.

He added that a regular vacation system would be implemented that would allow the soldiers more time to relax.

Because the Kaohsiung City Government has plans to develop the tourism business on the island, Chang said that he has instructed the Coast Guard Administration to develop a plan that would attract tourists while still taking into account the island's environment and natural resources.