President Chen Shui-bian (陳水扁) yesterday resolved to seek reconciliation both in cross-strait relations and among the country's political parties, saying that dialogue for reconciliation is the universal language for Taiwanese and people of the world.
Attending the nation's second National Prayer Breakfast with its theme of reconciliation, the president reiterated his wish to normalize relations with China and expressed his intention to hold a summit where leaders across party lines would be invited to exchange views on national affairs.
"Since I took office, I have been seeking a mutually beneficial relationship with China under the principles of reconciliation and cooperation, with an aim to eradicate animosity," Chen said.
PHOTO: GEORGE TSORNG, TAIPEI TIMES
"I am convinced that with patience, perseverance, wisdom and creativity, the leadership of the two nations will be able to open the door for reconciliation to attain eternal peace across the Strait."
Applying the same mindset to domestic politics, Chen urged leaders of all factions to forsake prejudice and antagonism and to work with him in the best interest of the people.
"As long as [we don't] harbor enmity in our hearts, there will be no foes in our eyes," he said.
"It is a norm in a democracy to have both partisan competition as well as cooperation. But rivalry between parties should sprout a nation's competitive advantage, not create antagonism and conflicts within a nation."
He told the audience he hoped both the ruling and opposition parties would learn to be more tolerant, "replacing speculation and opposition with sincerity and collaboration."
Chen also stressed he would do whatever it takes to make a summit meeting between parties a reality.
Leaders from different party lines would be invited to discuss subjects such as constitutional and governmental reform, as well as economic and cross-strait issues, he said.
Also at the breakfast, Chen said that the message of reconciliation is needed around the world.
"Reconciliation is not only the common hope for Taiwanese, but also the cornerstone of global security and peace.
Although Chen is not a Christian, he prayed that God would make him a peace-lover enabling him to join other peaceloving people in achieving world peace.
The religious ritual was first introduced in 1935 by Methodists participating in Bible studies. Some American politicians who were Christians adopted the custom four years later to pray for their nation.
Taiwan's annual prayer breakfast began last year and was initiated by the Reverend Kao Chun-ming (
Kao has said that he was deeply moved by the South Korean event and inspired to host a similar event in Taiwan.
Around 750 prominent figures from the public and private sector, including former president Lee Teng-hui (
Also in attendance were religious heavyweights, diplomats based in Taipei and some 130 lawmakers from the US, Germany, Canada, Japan, South Korea, Thailand and Kuwait.
Although PFP Chairman James Soong (
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