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New Taiwan Government, New Hope for Peace After a tense presidential election, the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) won 39% of the ballots, ending the 55-year KMT ruling. On May 20, 2000, the tenth president and vice-president made their inaugural speeches, which attracted much attention from Mainland China. The relationship across the Taiwan Strait immediately became even more tense, drawing the attention of the media from all over the world. On May 13, 2000, the people of Taoyuan County held a farewell party for Ms. Annette Lu, who was the first female Vice President-elect of Taiwan, as well as the incumbent county magistrate of Taoyuan County. Ms. Annette Lu and Mr. Chen Shui-bian, the President-elect, both gave very touching speeches. The farewell party, called "One Step Up, Blessing and Expectation" was attended by Dr. Hong Tao Tze, President of AWC Taiwan and also Honorary Vice President of AWC, along with 36 other AWC Taiwan representatives. In his opening remarks, Dr. Hong formally introduced AWC to the audience. Sponsors of the party invited the well-known Tai Ji Men Qigong Academy to perform their powerful drum performance during the opening ceremony. Also invited were many popular entertainers and performing groups. At the party, Ms. Annette Lu stated, "During my term in office, I will build Taiwan into a green silicon island. Through everlasting love between people, Taiwan's intelligence, and passion, we can share the world and the earth as well." In addition to congratulating the Vice President-elect, President-elect Chen Shui-bian also gave a speech before assuming office. He indicated that "The birth of a civilian president has changed Taiwan's history and created a world record, because both the President-elect and Vice President-elect have had the same experience in their political lives; both have been county magistrates and both have been political prisoners. Facing the extremely hostile Mainland China government, if only we can have a heart of love, with sincerity, goodwill, and faith, we can improve Cross-Strait relations. The current tense relationship looks hopeless, but after my inauguration on May 20, there will be an enchanting prospect. I will create everlasting peace across the Taiwan Strait and create a peaceful new century." Throughout the farewell party, the determination and effort of the new Taiwan government to create a world of peace was evident. AWC
Taiwan reporters: Pamela Chen, Tieng Lim, Dora Hsu, Elena Ma
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