President Lai Ching-te said Nov. 17 that the establishment of the National Archives demonstrates Taiwan’s commitment to transitional justice and government transparency.
Lai made the remarks while attending the opening ceremony for the facility in New Taipei City. He first spoke of the archives’ responsibility to collect and preserve important documents and records from all levels of government, as well as from private groups or individuals.
According to the president, the National Archives should operate on a principle of maximizing openness and minimizing restriction to allow for public scrutiny of government actions. He further encouraged the facility to cooperate with schools, civic groups and local institutions to help cultivate students’ evidence-based reasoning skills and deepen the public’s understanding of Taiwan’s development in politics, culture, economy, education and industry.
The president then noted that as of Sept. 10, the number of days since the lifting of martial law has surpassed the number of days Taiwan was under martial law. He invited Taiwanese people to visit the archives and see historical documents crucial to the country’s democratization, such as the order lifting martial law.
The opening of the National Archives reflects the government’s determination to protect national records and preserve collective memory, Lai said, adding that the archives will allow more people to appreciate the value of democracy, respect for human rights and the rule of law.
The president concluded by encouraging citizens to confront the past, saying that with truth as the foundation, unity would result and allow the country to move boldly forward on the path of freedom and democracy. (YCH-E)
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