President Chen Shui-bian (
"The first lady did her best to accomplish the difficult task," said Chen yesterday during a press conference to unveil a new book recording his wife's US trip. "Her experiences [in the US] will strengthen the splendor of Taiwan and glorify the country."
The Presidential Office yesterday also presented a book covering the first lady's visit, entitled A Journey with Democracy and Goodwill.
Wu and Chen attended the press conference to encourage all politicians and people to support the government's diplomatic efforts and thank those who have helped promote Taiwan's diplomatic efforts.
"The trip was the most challenging experience of my life," Wu told reporters. "I felt very nervous and tired during the whole event and even became sick from the pressure."
Wu stressed that in the 50 years of her life, no elections or political event had put her in such a tough situation.
"I didn't make any complaints when visiting the US, but now I must say honestly that I was almost exhausted," she said.
Wu stressed that she could barely eat and sleep because of the pressure she was under and she now realizes she needs to improve her preparatory work.
"I have learned that I must always follow the development of the government's policy-making, the domestic situation and international events to prepare myself for any emergency mission," she said.
On behalf of Chen, Wu led a special delegation on a landmark diplomatic visit to three major US cities between Sept. 19 and Sept. 29. During the 10-day trip, she charmed the US' political circle and overseas Taiwanese community by expressing her unique personality and her sense of humor.
Wu made three speeches to top US political figures and overseas Taiwanese -- at the National Arts Club in New York, the American Enterprise Institute think tank and Capitol Hill in Washington where her husband has wanted to visit since he came into power in May two years ago.
A highlight of the visit was a unanimous vote by the US House of Representatives to welcome Wu, and she was warmly greeted by at least 20 congressmen, including bipartisan congressional leaders, at a Capitol Hill reception.
Over the course of more than 20 engagements, Wu endeavored at every opportunity to promote Taiwan's democratic achievements, to highlight Taiwan's sustained effort at contributing to international society and to express the nation's regret over its exclusion from international organizations, in particular the UN.
"She has successfully expanded Taiwan's international visibility while setting an example for all Taiwanese women and disabled people in the fight for the country's diplomatic status," Chen said.
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