The success of Taiwan's high-speed rail (HSR) system is an honor for the nation, Premier Sean Chen said today at a groundbreaking ceremony for a new station at Miaoli. He asked for everyone's continued support in the system's expansion.
"The government has looked forward to this day for a long time. The president, vice president and the leaders of the Executive Yuan are all very pleased that construction on the Miaoli station can finally begin. President Ma Ying-jeou specifically asked me to convey his congratulations," said the premier.
Construction of this station is essential to the development of the Miaoli area, said Chen. Not only did the government throw its weight behind the project, but financial institutions also lent their support aware of the project's significance to national development.
Chen recalled a business trip to South Korea in 2004 while working in the private financial sector. During his visit, a top bank executive took him to experience the country's high-speed rail. There was only time for a short ride but the executive was keen to bring him to a particular destination. When they disembarked at a small station, the man proudly announced this was his hometown.
"That look on his face, of deep satisfaction and a hope for the future, is the same expression I see here on everyone's face today," said the premier.