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Pro-independence legislator goes to Washington

By Monique Chu
STAFF REPORTER
Monday, Sep 04, 2000, Page 3

Lee Ying-yuan PHOTO: TAIPEI TIMES

Taipei Times: What are the essential elements of a qualified diplomat? Do you consider yourself a suitable candidate for the task?

Lee Ying-yuan: As a politically-appointed diplomat, one has to understand the interests of one's own country as well as those of the country one is stationed in. One also needs to grasp what bargaining chips are in play throughout the give-and-take on the negotiation table. A qualified diplomat should also be equipped with polished interpersonal skills and be able to show a genuine interest in people.

I've always been interested in people since I was little. And I understand the interests of the people in Taiwan, as well as the policy orientations outlined by the president and the new administration.

TT: Do you consider your association with the World United Formosans for Independence (WUFI) a plus or minus for your new job?

Lee: It's definitely a plus. The WUFI movement has emphasized the dignity of people in Taiwan as well as Taiwan's situation as a sovereign nation. Over the years, the organization has accumulated a large number of friendships with civic groups worldwide. Also, many of WUFI's members are intellectuals who have some influence in US society. This strength from the grassroots level is a plus for my new job as well as for the interests of Taiwan.

"My experiences ... may reduce misgivings some have about me. The debate over Taiwan's future, be it pro-independence or pro-unification, is a plus to the maturing of Taiwan's society."

Lee Ying-yuan, Deputy Representative to the US

TT: You are a pro-independence, non-traditional diplomat, and you'll be working with professional diplomats who are considered by some to be rather conservative. How are you going to handle this potential source of friction?

Lee: My experiences working with my colleagues in the legislature who come from diverse political backgrounds may reduce misgivings some have about me. The debate over Taiwan's future, be it pro-independence or pro-unification, is a plus to the maturing of Taiwan's society.

When I and three colleagues of mine, who were respectively from the KMT, the New Party and the independence camp, joined the president's tour of six of Taiwan's diplomatic allies last month, we agreed that Taiwan should expand its external relations. Without an effort like this to strengthen Taiwan's bargaining chips with China, peace across the Taiwan Strait will remain unlikely. The ultimate goal for us, however, is to pursue conciliation and peaceful coexistence with China.

TT: The incumbent representative at TECRO, Chen Chien-jen (程建人) is a seasoned professional diplomat. How will the division of labor be arranged between you and him?

Lee: I am a deputy, so I am under Chen's direction. He used to work as a legislator, and I believe he understands the democratic and pluralistic nature of Taiwan's society. I have confidence in working with him. In fact, the president told me that it was Chen that recommended a deputy be recruited from the DPP.
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