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Updated Thursday, January 24, 2008 0:00 am TWN, By William C. Pao, The China Post



	Flags of countries represented in the World Freedom Day Celebrations are displayed during a procession. (Akie Ang, The China Post) More Photos (5)

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Taiwan’s democratic achievements lauded on World Freedom Day 2008

According to Yao Eng-chi, president of WLFD, the topic is substantive, given the force of globalization. "In this age of globalization, nations have become more interdependent and interlinked," he said. "As such, the concept of 'global governance' has gained importance as countries seek to settle disputes or resolve conflicts through peaceful means."

Yao cited the United Nations as an example of global governance, as countries work collectively to push for freedom, democracy and human rights, eliminate barriers to democratization, and provide assistance and humanitarian aid to countries that need them.

Wang Jin-pyng, Legislative Yuan President, mentioned problems and challenges facing nations throughout the world. Specifically, he said, there are still many ethnic groups that live under the threat of war, poverty and starvation, given a rise in population, lack of resources and ethnic cleansing.

Wang also mentioned the threat of irreparable damage to the environment. "A change in climatic patterns has brought tremendous challenges to mankind. A shortage of food and damage caused by floods as a result of global warming has threatened the very existence of the human race," he said. "We should treat the issue of global warming seriously and commit ourselves to the reduction of carbon dioxide, so the impact of global warming on the environment can be kept to a minimum."

Several foreign speakers expressed appreciation for being invited to the event and commended Taiwan for transforming into a democratic, prosperous country.

Victor Manuel Torres Herrera, parliamentary member of Mexico, said Taiwan and his nation share many similarities — both are in the Asia-Pacific region and both share values of freedom and democracy. He also cited the strong bilateral ties between Taiwan and Mexico, which have lasted for decades.

Gonzalo Uriarte, parliamentary member of Chile, made an impassioned plea in his remarks to allow Taiwan to join the World Health Organization (WHO), which has denied Taiwan membership given its sovereignty as a nation has not been recognized by most countries in the world.

Uriarte said Taiwan is a democratic and freedom-loving country and should not be isolated from the international health arena, because Taiwan can contribute its experience and expertise in fighting various diseases. Plus, he said Taiwan has over the years dispatched various relief teams to rescue and aid people stricken by disease and natural disasters, efforts that should be recognized.

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