The ROC will persevere to the end to defend its sovereignty and fishing rights, Premier Jiang Yi-huah said today in reference to the row with the Philippines over the killing of a Taiwanese fisherman May 9.
"President Ma Ying-jeou has reiterated once and again that the Republic of China is a peace-loving member of the world community. We would never start a dispute," the premier said in a meeting with Cabinet officials.
The vast waters of the South China Seas are politically sensitive for many countries, but in this dispute Taiwan has stood on the side of reason while the Philippines has not responded in a reasonable manner, Jiang said.
The premier added that Taiwan and the Philippines have notably different country systems and cultures. This incident highlights the difficulties Taipei has faced in dealing with Manila over the past decades. Decisions made at this time by the ROC government will mark a turning point in the diplomatic model between the two countries.
Taiwan's government agencies have begun implementing the 11 punitive measures outlined by the Executive Yuan and the National Security Council. The premier directed the agencies to stand their ground and to prepare for the long haul. From past experiences, the Philippines will take some time to respond, so these measures may be in place for a while. Jiang asked each agency to be ready to take further sanctions.
Premier Jiang also called on citizens not to begrudge Filipinos working in Taiwan. While the ROC government has taken a hard line against the Philippine government, it will continue to protect Filipino citizens in Taiwan.