President Ma Ying-jeou says Taiwan’s identity will not be jeopardized by engaging with China. Ma was speaking Monday with a group of industrial leaders.
Ma said the government is in control of its policy-making, although there are concerns over Taiwan’s over-reliance on China due to close trade ties.
“We have adopted a strategy of 'minimizing the risks and maximizing the opportunities'," said Ma. "We must engage China cautiously. Our [policies] benefit the Taiwanese people and are Taiwan-centered. We are in control of our decision-making, economically and politically. We have been able to stick to this principle over the past six years while signing 21 agreements with China. We will not allow [Taiwan] to lose its identity.”
Ma said there is no need to demonize or to praise of China. However, he said China’s growing clout can’t be ignored as it has already replaced Japan as the biggest importer of Taiwanese goods this year.
Ma also said although Taiwan’s economy this year is likely to be better than last year, the country is still facing formidable challenges. That’s because traditional industries must be upgraded and no progress is in sight when it comes to Taiwan’s bid to join regional trade bodies such as the Trans-Pacific Partnership and Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership.