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PRESIDENT PITCHES FOR ARMS PROCUREMENT PACKAGE TO MAINTAIN BALANCE

Central News Agency

2005-07-07 23:04:29

    Taipei, July 7 (CNA) President Chen Shui-bian renewed his call Thursday for public support for the government three arms procurement plans in order to maintain military balance across the Taiwan Strait. "We must see clearly the threat from China and support the government's three major weapons procurement plans to increase the nation's defense capability, " Chen said in a speech delivered at the end of a reservists training drill in central Taiwan.

    More than 5,000 young and able-bodied reservists were called up to take part in the operation codenamed "Tunghsin No. 17" aimed at practicing combat skills for defending coastal regions in Miaoli and Taichung counties.

    Accompanied by Vice President Annette Lu and Defense Minister Lee Jye, Chen observed the whole drill in Taichung County and delivered a speech to the participants at the conclusion of the maneuver.

    He focused his speech on relations across the Taiwan Strait, reminding all military service members and reservists of the need to maintain sufficient defense capabilities because China has not become a democracy and still poses a serious threat to Taiwan.

    Chen also urged the armed forces to "heighten their spiritual power to triumph over the enemy."

    As the training drill coincided with the 68th anniversary of the the Marco Polo Bridge Incident which marked the start of the War of Resistance Against Japan, Chen exhorted all military personnel and reservists to learn from the lesson of the war. "An important inspiration from the war against the Japanese is that the weak can defeat the strong, as long as the military and the people remain united," Chen said.

    He added that the armed forces' duty is not just to defend the nation and the people, but also to pursue world peace and freedom, which is the most cherished value of the government and people of Taiwan.

    In his speech, Chen also urged local politicians not to be tricked by China's "united front" scheme to divide Taiwan. "China is expected to invite our legislators, city/county councilors and other elected officials to visit during the summer legislative recess. This is part of its 'united front' strategy aimed at driving wedges into our society and weakening our psychological defenses, " Chen said, adding that local politicians should not be tricked into serving as China's puppets in helping divide Taiwan.

    On the resumption of cross-strait talks, Chen said dialogue would be possible only if no political strings or prerequisites are attached. Chen said cross-strait reconciliation will require more patience, goodwill and sincerity.

    Noting that national survival, security and sustainable development is his administration's top goal, Chen said cross-strait peace and security is crucial to Taiwan's survival and development. "Therefore, I look forward to an early resumption of cross-strait dialogue under the principles of parity, peace and democracy, " Chen said.

    He lamented that China has continued using various "tricks" to sow discord in local society, adding up to uncertainties in peaceful cross-strait engagements.

(By Sofia Wu)

ENDITEM