ent organization to integrate international efforts to deal with environmental issues. According to Chen, the establishment of such a global environment authority is essential for the comprehensive resolution of various worsening problems faced by the environment.
"Having gained membership in the World Trade Organization and seeking to join the World Health Organization, Taiwan is willing to work together with like-minded people from various countries to push for the establishment of an environment body, because free trade, healthy existence, environmental sustainability, democracy and human rights are our beliefs and unbreakable universal values," Chen said.
The president made the remarks during the International Conference on Cultural Diversity and Sustainable Development held in the southern city of Kaohsiung.
Chen noted that people migrating to Taiwan from various parts of the world during different periods have contributed to the country's cultural diversity.
They include the aborigines who first settled the island, the European and Chinese immigrants who came in the 16th century, the Japanese colonialists and the Chinese people who moved here together with the Kuomintang government between the 19th century and the mid-20th century, as well as foreign workers and foreign spouses from Southeast Asia who have been arriving since the late 20th century, Chen pointed out.
As it shows the world its diverse cultures, Taiwan has not forgotten its responsibility as a member of the global community, he said.
Chen said that although Taiwan is not a member of the United Nations, the country has abided by international regulations and has made various efforts to protect its cultural diversity and environmental sustainability.
For example, the Cabinet has set up the National Council for Sustainable Development to conduct related research and international cooperation, and the government has also formed a panel to respond to climate change and comply with the Kyoto Protocol aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions, despite not being a signatory to the protocol, he said.
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