President Chen Shui-bian (陳水扁) assured the international community yesterday that he will be cautious and steady in carrying out the March 20 referendum, which he described as a democratic achievement to stabilize the Asia-Pacific region and bring a lasting peace.
Chen expressed goodwill toward China, saying he is confident leaders on both sides of the Taiwan Strait can put aside their differences after the presidential election, to be held on the same date as the referendum.
"I would like to make my statement again that, as the head of state, I will absolutely deliberately deal with those issues of public concern, including Taiwan's first ever referendum, cross-strait development and the Taiwan-US relationship," Chen said.
"I must reaffirm that the government appreciates support from international allies and friends of Taiwan's democracy," he said.
"Peace and democracy are the common language between Taiwan and the international community, and the efforts Taiwanese people have made in seeking peace and democracy are not just for us but also for future generations, as they will bring permanent stability in the entire Asia-Pacific region," he said.
During the keynote speech at a lunar year-end gathering with the media yesterday, the president said his "defensive referendum" will ultimately be accepted by the international community.
Chen said he is willing to listen to the opposition parties' criticisms and will consider their suggestions.
He also appealed to opposition leaders to handle the presidential campaign rationally and to stop threatening the public.
"Every presidential election is an opportunity for Taiwan to improve upon its democratic achievements," he said.
"What we need is a fair race," Chen said. "It is not necessary to frighten Taiwanese people all the time in every election."
On cross-strait tensions, Chen said he was confident that he has proposed a clear framework of the cross-strait relationship.
"We are ready for positive interaction after the March 20 [presidential election], especially after the May 20 inauguration."
Chen hopes that leaders of both sides can show trust, which will become the basis of future interaction.
"Welcoming the traditional Lunar New Year, I hope there will be no more nostalgia or worries, but only reconciliation, cooperation and peace," Chen said.
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