President Chen Shui-bian (陳水扁) yesterday took part in an open forum in the first Youth National Affairs Conference (青年國是會 議), exchanging views with participants on national issues.
The young audience's questions ranged from serious topics like the nation's name, the military system and Aboriginal affairs to lighter queries, like "Mr. President, may I shake your hand?"
PHOTO: YEH CHIH-MING, TAIPEI TIMES
In regard to the name issue, Chen reiterated that the best abbreviated title for the country is Taiwan.
"As I've previously mentioned," said Chen, "I feel that the best, the most precise and the most factual abbreviated term for the country is Taiwan."
In response to another query, Chen said the military was much less politicized than before and that the government is currently assessing its conscription system.
Stressing that "Taiwan and its Aborigines have nation-to-nation special relations" as he proclaimed four years ago, Chen said he believed much progress on Aboriginal issues could occur as soon as relevant bills ascertain legal definitions.
At one point, Chen took out a note from his wallet which he said he had kept since receiving it in March.
Chen recited the note, which was words of encouragement asking Chen to persist in seeking reforms and to stand firm against corruption and arrogance.
"The note was from a young friend, from Chen Chih-chung (陳致中)," he said. The president's son, Chen Chih-chung is currently studying at the University of California, Berkeley.
Chen told his audience that he kept the note not because it was from his son but because it represented young people's ambitions.
Quoting International Paralympic Committee president Philip Craven's remark that "Paralympic players have proven to the world that there is nothing impossible," Chen said: "Young people can make a difference in Taiwan, and make a difference in the world," so they should never underestimate themselves.
The conference, sponsored by the National Youth Commission, was held at Yangmingshan's Sun Yat-sen Hall (中山樓) for about 200 college students and young adults.
Stating that the event allowed youth to make suggestions to shape administrative policies, Chen said the group's advice will be considered by his administration and forwarded to relevant government agencies for further deliberation. He also said the event would be held annually to fuel young people's interest in national affairs.
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