President Ma Ying-jeou has delivered the final New Year’s address of his presidency.
During his speech, Ma called on Taiwan’s next president to continue conducting cross-strait relations under the framework of the 1992 Consensus.
The 1992 Consensus is a tacit agreement between Taiwan and Mainland China. It holds that both sides belong to one China while allowing each side to maintain its own interpretation of what one China means. Ma said that the 1992 Consensus has proven effective during his seven years in office.
"This cross-strait consensus was not easy to achieve. It meets the requirements of the Republic of China’s constitution while also being able to guarantee the peaceful development of cross-strait relations," Ma said. "It is the most beneficial policy choice for Taiwan at this stage. Any president of the Republic of China should sincerely appreciate the consensus and work hard to maintain it."
The Republic of China is Taiwan’s official name.
Ma also said that Taiwan cannot afford to reject nuclear power or any other source of energy.
"What Taiwan needs isn’t support for or opposition to nuclear power. If Taiwan wants to have enough energy, maintain reasonable electricity prices, and meet the Paris Agreement, it must gradually reduce the use of nuclear power while developing alternative energy sources and carefully selecting the most beneficial energy mix for Taiwan," Ma said.
"This is a very serious issue which the public must face with pragmatism and collectively bear. We must not underestimate its importance or make a wrong judgment."
Ma also said that Taiwan cannot rely on itself in its efforts to upgrade and restructure its industries. He said that the next administration must open up Taiwan’s economy to the world.