Politically, of course, the U.S., despite the flaws in its systems, is still a democracy - we like to associate with democracies. And strategically, the U.S. is a counter-balance to China, a rising China that is not yet a democracy.
Mrs. Thatcher was a powerful figure at the time I was a student in London. And I admire her versatility and strength.
A more consistent and sustainable relationship with China will be a core goal of my administration. That requires open channels of communication, both with China's leadership and the Taiwanese people.
For many Taiwanese, almost all Taiwanese, we'd like to we say we are a country, and we have a sovereignty of our own.
I will make the greatest efforts to seek mutually acceptable interaction between Taiwan and mainland China.
I will rebuild the people's trust in government and create a stable foundation for Taiwan's future development.
