Ma to place new emphasis on 'flexible diplomacy'

“Our 'flexible diplomacy' must take on a new emphasis, which shall guide both Taiwan's foreign relations as well as economy towards a new 'viable path' of growth and expansion,” the president said during the 2009 Spring Banquet hosted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA).

Ma noted that “low politics” issues such as trade, investment, environmental protection, and immigration are of central importance not only to foreign relations but also to further integrate Taiwan into the world economy.

“Over the past eight months, my administration has on many occasions transformed the impossible into the possible,” said Ma, noting as examples a US$6.463 billion arms procurement package with the United States, the signing of the four agreements aimed at the opening of cross-strait links, and former Vice President Lien Chan's attendance of the APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting in Peru.

Other achievements that Ma mentioned were the inclusion of Taiwan in the WTO's Government Procurement Agreement (GPA), a new engagement scheme with the International Health Regulations (IHR) of the World Health Organization (WHO), and the removal of Taiwan from the U.S. Special 301 Watch List of countries with suspect records on safeguarding intellectual property rights.

“These achievements all occurred in a short time span of a few months, proving that indeed we can safeguard this country's sovereignty and dignity while seeking rapprochement with mainland China,” Ma stressed.

Since his inauguration last May, Ma has worked towards a policy of “flexible diplomacy” aimed at achieving stability across the Taiwan Strait. “With the right policies, a triple-win scenario with the two sides and the international community is clearly feasible and sustainable,” he noted.

Speaking on behalf of the Diplomatic Corps, Burkina Faso Ambassador Jacques Sawadogo lauded Ma's “acumen and guidance,” which he said has consolidated Taiwan's relations in the world and expanded its international scope.

“The year 2008 saw many exchanges between high level officials from the Republic of China and its friends and allies,” observed Sawadogo, who delivered his speech in his native language of French.

The ambassador also pointed out that “despite the difficult global context, Taiwan remains listed as one of the five best places for investments according to the highly respected Business Environment Risk Intelligence (BERI).”

In honor of the different nationalities represented at the annual event, the banquet featured dishes from throughout the world. Live music by the Evergreen Symphony Orchestra entertained the hundreds of members and friends of Taiwan's international community who were in attendance.

Foreign Affairs Minister Francisco Ou wished everyone present “a very successful Year of the Ox” during his opening remarks. “May our nations enjoy everlasting friendship,” he added with a toast.

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