Overseas compatriots are and have always been a vital force in the development of the ROC, Premier Sean Chen said today at the 2012 Conference of the Overseas Chinese Affairs Council (OCAC) held in Taipei. He asked for continued support from the overseas community and OCAC commissioners as the government works to restore Taiwan's economy to its former glory.
With world nations still facing headwinds from the global financial slowdown and European debt crisis, compatriots abroad can provide valuable assistance in boosting Taiwan's exports and attracting investment, the premier pointed out. The government would do well to draw upon their business experiences (specifically in developing emerging markets), and the more established companies can help grow the local economy by bringing their operations back to Taiwan.
Premier Chen also pointed to foreign relations where Taiwan recently celebrated its inclusion into the U.S. Visa Waiver Program. Considering the quality of ROC citizens, the premier believes Taiwan would have been granted this privilege long ago were it not for the absence of formal ties with the U.S. For a unique situation such as this, the government needs advice and counsel from leaders of Taiwanese communities abroad, he added.
Chen urged all OCAC commissioners, particularly the younger delegates returning for this year's conference, to make use of their time here to offer insights on making Taiwan more competitive.