President Tsai Ing-wen said Jan. 1, 2021, that the government is working to ensure a normal life for citizens while promoting economic recovery and strengthening resilience in the face of challenges.
Taiwan’s successful COVID-19 response over the past year can be attributed to expertise, trust and unity, Tsai said. The country’s economy maintained growth as government measures took effect like transitioning to a digital economy; developing the six core strategic industries; rolling out next-generation, or 5G, services; and constructing forward-looking infrastructure, she added.
Tsai made the remarks while delivering her New Year’s Day address at the Presidential Office in Taipei City.
According to Tsai, the effectiveness of related efforts are illustrated by the opening of the electrified South Link Line, raising of the minimum wage, issuing updated passports prominently featuring the word Taiwan, establishing 15,000 social housing units, initiating a pension system for farmers, increasing the child care allowance, fast-tracking 3,000 new public preschool classes and promoting consultations on sustainable development practices in line with the Conference of the Parties to the U.N. Framework Convention on Climate Change.
Regarding cross-strait relations, Taiwan will facilitate meaningful dialogue under the principles of parity and dignity, Tsai said, adding that she has consistently called for the two sides to stage joint discussions, find solutions and resolve issues pragmatically.
Tsai also took the opportunity to address the international audience. The government and people have shown Taiwan Can Help strengthen the global response to coronavirus, act as a force for good in the world and serve as an indispensable member of the international community, she said.
Support from around the world is deeply appreciated, Tsai said. The willingness to stand together with Taiwan is significant for the country’s 23 million freedom-loving people, and makes the country’s democracy even stronger, she added.
The six core strategic industries are founded on the government’s five-plus-two innovative industries plan. Launched in 2016, the undertaking fosters the development of the biotech and pharmaceuticals, green energy, national defense, smart machinery and Internet of Things sectors, as well as the circular economy and a new paradigm for agricultural development. (YCH-E)
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