President expresses support for world environmental body and cooperation

President Chen Shui-bian (陳水扁) expressed his support yesterday for an initiative to set up a global body to integrate international efforts to deal with environmental issues.

Chen that the establishment of such a global environmental authority was essential for the comprehensive resolution of various problems faced by the environment.

"Having gained membership in the World Trade Organization and seeking to join the World Health Organization, Taiwan is willing to work together with like-minded people from various countries to push for the establishment of an environmental body, because free trade, a healthy existence, environmental sustainability, democracy and human rights form part of our beliefs and are unbreakable universal values," Chen said.

Chen the remarks during the International Conference on Cultural Diversity and Sustainable Development held in Kaohsiung.

Although Taiwan is not a UN member, it has abided by international regulations and has made various efforts to protect its cultural diversity and environmental sustainability, he added.

For example, the Cabinet has set up a council to conduct research on sustainable development and formed a panel to respond to climate change and comply with the Kyoto Protocol, he said.