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China represents both an opportunity and a threat: President Ma

ROC Central News Agency

Taipei, June 30 (CNA) President Ma Ying-jeou said Monday that China represents both an opportunity and a threat, and that a good leader understands how to "maximize the opportunity while minimizing the threat."

Ma made the comments at a biannual military promotion ceremony held at the armed forces' officers club in Taipei City, which was also attended by Vice President Vincent Siew and Minister of National Defense Chen Chao-min.

Ma was presiding at a military promotion ceremony for the first time since he assumed the presidency on May 20 of this year.

Ma said that since taking office, changes have occurred in terms of the atmosphere and the state of affairs in cross-strait relations.

He said that part of minimizing the threat that China poses is for Taiwan to strengthen its military defenses and combat readiness, adding that the purpose of doing so is "not to seek war, but instead to avoid war."

On introducing a voluntary military system, Ma expressed the hope that it can be done in the next 4-6 years so that the armed forces can recruit the most outstanding soldiers and officers. He added that having a strong reserve force is extremely important to establishing an effective voluntary military system.

The military must work hard to build a strong fighting force and enhance its combat readiness to demonstrate the country's resolve to defend itself, Ma said.

"We must protect and defend our country ourselves, " he added, expressing the hope that all military officers will work as hard as they can in this regard.

He further said that while Taiwan's democracy continues to grow stronger, the role of the armed forces remains the same, namely to protect the country and the people.

At the ceremony, a total of 13 officers were promoted to the rank of lieutenant general or vice admiral, while 45 officers were promoted to the rank of major general or rear admiral. (By Steve Bercic) enditem/ pc