President Ma Ying-jeou gave an address Wednesday to mark the seventh anniversary of his inauguration. During the address, Ma discussed his accomplishments and the challenges he has faced during his time in office.
Ma said that his administration has faced a global financial crisis and the devastation of Typhoon Morakot. He said that he also worked to reform policy on the military draft system and parental leave system. Ma spoke about his sentiments looking back at the past seven years.
"During the past seven years, there have been good times and tough times. There have been achievements and setbacks," President Ma said. "But with every setback, we stand up again and are more confident. We are confident in the paths and policies we have chosen, and we are confident in the goodness and courage of the Taiwanese people. I want to especially thank the people of this nation because everyone has been working hard for the past seven years. We have all contributed to the present prosperity and security of the Republic of China."
The president said he has also heard much criticism in past few years, but said he feels that he is taking the nation in the right direction. Ma said that for example, the adjustment of oil and electricity prices was not a popular policy. But Ma said it was a responsible decision that he does not regret.
"That is just one example. I want to let everyone know that I have given my best to Taiwan, and have made accomplishments in reforms," Ma said. "I take responsibility for all the storms that these reforms brought on, but I am still confident that time and history will show that these decisions to be the right ones."