Premier Frank Hsieh (謝長廷) yesterday echoed President Chen Shui-bian's (陳水扁) remarks about Chinese Nationalist Party (KMT) Chairman Lien Chan's (連戰) planned trip to China, saying that Lien should obtain government authorization for any activities that could affect the national interest.
"I must say again, we welcome all kinds of visits by anybody to China. However, when it comes to the national security, the nation's interests or political issues, an authorization from the government is required so that the country's legal rights and interests will not be jeopardized," Hsieh said.
Hsieh made his remarks during the opening speech of a two-day retreat for all Cabinet members at Wulai's Yun Hsien Resort (
The president came back from the Pope's funeral and arrived at CKS International Airport at 3pm. During a press conference at the airport, he urged Lien to consult with the government if he plans to meet and talk to Chinese officials about potential agreements.
As of press time yesterday, neither Lien nor the KMT had confirmed a date for Lien's trip to China.
Hsieh said that the idea of "co-existence" will guide the government when it comes to future cross-strait relations. In the current circumstances, he said, courage and patience are needed to carry out the government's policy, and national unity is also paramount.
"We should understand each other and respect each other so we can unite to protect and defend our country," the premier said.
Hsieh also said that his Cabinet will pursue any necessary policies and projects that are in the public interest, even if relevant bills or budgets have not been approved by the legislature.
"As long as they are good for the people, we have to [pursue them] anyway," Hsieh said. "If related laws or regulations are not passed, we will try our best to do it in other ways so we will not break the law. If the budget is not approved, we will try our best to save as much money as possible during the process."
In the first session of the seminar, which lasted for approximately three hours, 34 Cabinet members hammered out rough agreements and resolutions. Minister of Foreign Affairs Mark Chen (
"`Innovation' is the key for Taiwan to move forward," said Cabinet Spokesman Chou Jung-tai (
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