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TAIPEI: Taiwan's president-elect Ma Ying-jeou has about a month to go before officially taking office, but he has already begun the work of setting out the policies for his new government.
He pointed out that cross-strait negotiations are very important for the future of Taiwan, and if the need arises, he will seek help from Singapore.
Mr Ma said: "Singapore, in 1993, played a very important role in the two sides of Taiwan Strait by holding the Ku Wang talk and it produced an agreement – an unprecedented result.
"We would like to see similar accomplishments. Certainly, we appreciate this help from Singapore. So if we need further help, we will let our friends in Singapore know."
In negotiations with the mainland and with other countries, Mr Ma stressed that practicality is the main issue, not ideology. He added that the Chinese mainland need not worry about Taiwan seeking independence.
Mr Ma said: "We call ourselves ROC. But due to diplomatic difficulties, we cannot use this name internationally. I think we can use any other names, as long as it is acceptable to other countries and that it does not disrespect Taiwan.
"I think practical benefits are more important than names. I have said many, many times – the sense of Taiwan identity is not the same as Taiwan independence."
Other major concerns on Mr Ma's list include issues about the domestic environment, especially the economy.
"The first priority of Taiwan people as demonstrated from election is to re-vitalize the economy, to increase investment, to increase consumption and eventually to increase income. This is the number one goal," the president-elect said.
Mr Ma added that he is hoping to strike an economic agreement with mainland China.
"We will be negotiating an agreement on economic normalisation, followed by an agreement on peace. Economy relates to prosperity. Peace relates to security. International space relates to dignity," he said.
On May 20, Mr Ma will be inaugurated as president and the Taiwanese are expecting an all-new regime with brand new policies.
- CNA/so
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