Highlighting Taiwan’s economic accomplishments and commitment to achieving greater participation in regional economic integration are the nation’s top priorities for the upcoming Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Economic Leaders’ Meeting, according to James Soong, representative of President Tsai Ing-wen to the annual gathering.
The country stands ready and willing to work with all parties in addressing challenges such as the widening wealth gap and unemployment, Soong said, adding that Taiwan looks forward to expanding collaboration with regional partners in strengthening global peace, prosperity and stability.
Speaking at a news conference Nov. 6 in Taipei City, Soong said that he is extremely honored to represent the president for the second time at one of the most important economic and trade gatherings in the world. He made the comments a day before his scheduled departure as head of Taiwan’s delegation for the Nov. 10-11 meeting in Danang, Vietnam.
According to the envoy, the APEC meeting is a great venue for Taiwan to interact with leaders from around the world and hold bilateral or multilateral discussions on issues of regional and global concern. In particular, Soong said he will convey Taiwan’s desire to pursue an economic agreement with Japan so as to further promote trade ties.
Chairman of the opposition People First Party, Soong earned a doctorate in political science at Georgetown University in 1974. He has held a number of senior government posts over a decadeslong political career, including personal secretary to the president, director-general of the Government Information Office and government spokesman.
Since becoming a member of APEC in 1991, Taiwan has made substantial contributions to numerous initiatives and projects spanning disaster prevention, food security, information and communications technology, and women and the economy.
According to the Office of the President, this year’s delegation also comprises senior Cabinet officials including Minister without Portfolio John Chen-chung Deng, National Development Council Minister Chen Mei-ling, Minister of Economic Affairs Shen Jong-chin, Ho Mei-yueh, national policy adviser to the president, as well as academics and representatives from the private sector. (SFC-E)
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