Taiwan's President Tsai Issues A Call To Action

Taiwan’s President Tsai Issues A Call To Action

by David Parmer/Tokyo

On May 20, 2016 Tsai Ing-wen was sworn in as Taiwan’s first female president. Tsai’s Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) won a resounding victory in the last election, soundly defeating the Nationalist Party (KMT) and gaining a mandate for change.

Media reports since the election have focused on cross-strait relations. Beijing has made it clear that it will not tolerate any moves toward Taiwan independence. This is understandable since the DPP has traditionally been pro-independence.

In the meantime President Tsai has repeatedly said that she will respect the status quo when it comes to cross-strait relations. In her inauguration speech she again reiterated this; but apparently not strongly enough for Beijing to feel reassured.

So what is being missed? Just this: on May 20, Tsai Ing-wen laid out a plan for a revitalized and rejuvenated Taiwan, a society that would create jobs for its young people, build a sustainable future for its citizens, redress old wrongs and overhaul a bureaucracy long in need of reform.

On May 20th Tsai shared her vision for a 21st century Taiwan. It was a stirring speech, a call to action and a commitment to serve the people of Taiwan.

President Tsai’s speech is reproduced in full below. Take the time to read it yourself and draw your own conclusions. If you have any thoughts after reading, please log in and share them with us.

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Taipei, May 20 (CNA) The following is the full text of President Tsai Ing-wen’s (蔡英文) inaugural address as released by the Presidential Office Friday:

Esteemed heads of state and guests from our diplomatic allies, distinguished ambassadors and representatives, dear friends, our fellow citizens across the country:

Our Gratitude and Responsibilities

Just moments ago, in the Presidential Office building, Dr. Chen Chien-jen and I were officially sworn in as the 14th President and Vice President of the Republic of China. We must express our gratitude to this land for nurturing us and to the people for placing their trust in us. Most importantly, we deeply appreciate the democratic institutions of this country, which have allowed us to accomplish Taiwan’s third transition of political power through a peaceful electoral process. We also overcame many uncertainties throughout a four months-long transition period that concluded peacefully today.

Once again, the people of Taiwan have shown the world through our actions that we, as a free and democratic people, are committed to the defense of our freedom and democracy as a way of life. Each and every one of us participated in this journey. My dear fellow Taiwanese, we did it.

I would like to tell you that, regarding the results of the January 16th elections, I have always had one interpretation only. The people elected a new president and new government with one single expectation: solving problems.

At this very moment, Taiwan faces a difficult situation that requires its leaders to shoulder the burdens without hesitation. This is something I will not forget. I would also like to tell you that, the multitude of challenges before us require that we face them honestly and shoulder the responsibilities together.

Therefore, this speech is an invitation. I invite every fellow citizen to carry the future of this country.

It is not the leader who makes a country great; it is the collective striving of the people that makes this country great. A president should not only unite her own supporters; she should unite the entire country. To stand united for change — that is my earnest hope for this country. Here, I sincerely call on everyone to give this country a chance.

Let us leave behind the prejudices and conflicts of the past, and together fulfill the mission that the new era has entrusted to us.

At this moment and as President, I declare to the citizens of this country that my administration will demonstrate resolve in spearheading this country’s reform, and will never back down.

Building a Better Country for the Younger Generation

The path forward is not a smooth one. Taiwan needs a new government that readily takes on each and every challenge. And it is my job to lead such a government.

Our pension system will go bankrupt without reform.

Our rigid educational system is increasingly out of touch with society. Our energy and resources are limited, and our economy lacks momentum, with the old model of OEM manufacturing facing a bottleneck. This country urgently needs a new model for economic development.

Our population is rapidly aging, while the long-term care system remains inadequate.

Our birthrate remains low, while a sound childcare system seems a distant prospect.

Our environment still suffers from severe pollution.

Our country’s fiscal situation is far from optimistic.

Our judicial system has lost the trust of the people.

Our families are deeply disturbed by food safety scandals.

Our wealth disparities are still widening.

Our social safety net is full of holes.

Most importantly, and I must stress: our young people still suffer from low wages. Their lives are stuck, and they feel helpless and confused about the future.

Young people’s future is the government’s responsibility. If unfriendly structures persist, the situation for young people will never improve, no matter how many elite talents we have. My self-expectation is that, within my term as President, I will tackle this country’s problems step by step, starting with the basic structure.

This is what I want to do for the young people of Taiwan. Although I cannot give every young person a raise instantly, I can promise that the new administration will initiate actions immediately. Please give us some time, and please join us on this journey of reform.

To change young people’s predicament is to change a country’s predicament. When its young people have no future, a country is certain to have no future. It is the solemn duty of the new administration to help young people overcome difficulties, achieve generational justice, and deliver to the next generation a better country.

1. Transforming Economic Structures

To build a better country, going forward, the new administration must accomplish the following tasks. The first is to transform Taiwan’s economic structure. This is the most formidable task that the new administration must take on. We must not think lightly of ourselves, and we must not lose confidence. Taiwan enjoys many advantages that other countries lack.

We have the vibrancy and resilience of a maritime economy, high quality human resources, the pragmatic and reliable culture of engineers, a well-developed industrial chain, nimble and agile small and medium enterprises, and of course, our relentless entrepreneurial spirit. In order to completely transform Taiwan’s economy, from this moment on, we must bravely chart a different course – and that is to build a “New Model for Economic Development” for Taiwan.

The new administration will pursue a new economic model for sustainable development based on the core values of innovation, employment and equitable distribution. The first step of reform is to strengthen the vitality and autonomy of our economy, reinforce Taiwan’s global and regional connections, and actively participate in multilateral and bilateral economic cooperation as well as free trade negotiations including the TPP and RCEP.

We will also promote a “New Southbound Policy” in order to elevate the scope and diversity of our external economy, and to bid farewell to our past overreliance on a single market.

Furthermore, the new administration believes that the only way for Taiwan to overcome the current economic stagnation is to stimulate new momentum for growth. Our export and domestic demand will serve as twin engines for growth, allowing business production to become closely integrated with the livelihoods of the people, while building close ties between foreign trade and the local economy.

We will prioritize our plans to promote five major innovative industries, with the goal of reshaping Taiwan’s global competitiveness. By protecting labor rights, we will also actively raise productivity and allow wages to grow in lockstep with the economy.

This is a crucial moment for Taiwan’s economic development. We have the resolve and the ability to communicate. Going forward, we have systematic plans to engage in interagency cooperation, in order to consolidate the strength of the entire country and bring forth this new model.

As we pursue economic development, we must not forget our responsibility to the environment. Our New Model for Economic Development will be fully integrated with national land-use planning, regional development and environmental sustainability. Industrial planning strategy and national land-use should not be fragmented or shortsighted.

We must also pursue balanced regional development, which requires planning and coordination by the central administration. And it requires our local governments to uphold the spirit of regional joint governance.

We must not endlessly expend natural resources and the health of our citizens as we have done in the past. Therefore, we will strictly monitor and control all sources of pollution. We will also bring Taiwan into an age of circular economy, turning waste into renewable resources. We will gradually adjust our energy options based on the concepts of sustainability.

The new administration will seriously address issues related to climate change, land conservation and disaster prevention. After all, we only have one earth, and we only have one Taiwan.

2. Strengthening the Social Safety Net

The second area that the new government must address is to strengthen Taiwan’s social safety net. Over the past few years, several incidents of violent crime affecting the safety of children and youth have shaken our entire society.

However, a government cannot remain in a state of shock. It must demonstrate empathy. No one can endure the pain and suffering on behalf of the victims’ families. However, the government, and especially the first responders, must let the victims and their family members feel that, when unfortunate incidents occur, the government is on their side.

Beyond offering empathy, the government should propose solutions. We must do everything we can to prevent the repeated occurrences of tragedy, by swiftly mending holes in areas such as public safety, education, mental health and social work. The new administration will address these issues with the utmost seriousness and readiness to act, particularly on public safety and anti-drug efforts.

The issue of pension reform is crucial for the survival and development of Taiwan. We should not hesitate, nor should we act in haste. Vice President Chen Chien-jen is spearheading the establishment of a Pension Reform Committee. Previous administrations have devoted some effort to this issue, but public participation was inadequate. The new government will launch a collective negotiation process, because pension reform must unite everyone involved.

For this reason, we will convene a national congress on pension reform that brings together representatives from different social classes and occupations to engage in negotiations on the basis of societal unity. Within a year, we will offer a workable proposal for reform. Whether you are employed in the private or the public sector, life after retirement for every citizen should receive fair protection.

Furthermore, on the issue of long-term care, we will establish a high-quality, affordable and extensive long-term care system. Like pension reform, long-term care is a process of social mobilization. The new administration’s approach is for the government to lead and plan, while encouraging citizens to organize in communities; through the efforts of collective social assistance, our goal is to build an adequate and comprehensive system.

Every senior citizen can comfortably enjoy life after retirement in a community they are familiar with. Every family will see their burden of care lightened. We cannot leave senior care entirely to the free market. We will take up our responsibilities, plan and implement step by step, and get adequately prepared for the arrival of a hyper-aging society.

3. Social Fairness and Justice

The third area the new government must address is social fairness and justice. On this issue, the new government will continue to work with civil society to align its policies with the values of diversity, equality, openness, transparency, and human rights, so as to deepen and evolve Taiwan’s democratic institutions.

For the new democratic system to move forward, we must first find a way to face the past together. I will establish a Truth and Reconciliation Commission inside the Presidential Office, to address the historical past in the most sincere and cautious manner. The goal of transitional justice is to pursue true social reconciliation, so that all Taiwanese can take to heart the mistakes of that era.

We will begin by investigating and sorting through the facts. Within the next three years, we plan to complete Taiwan’s own investigative report on transitional justice. Follow-up work on transitional justice will then be carried out in accordance with the truth unveiled by the report. We will discover the truth, heal wounds, and clarify responsibilities. From here on out, history will no longer divide Taiwan. Instead, it will propel Taiwan forward.

Also related to fairness and justice, I will uphold the same principles when addressing issues concerning Taiwan’s indigenous peoples. At today’s Inauguration Ceremony, before they sang the national anthem, the indigenous children first sang the traditional melodies of their tribes. This means that we dare not forget who arrived first on this island.

The new government will address issues concerning indigenous peoples with an apologetic attitude. My administration will work to rebuild an indigenous historical perspective, progressively promote indigenous autonomous governance, restore indigenous languages and cultures, and improve the livelihood of indigenous communities.

Next, the new government will actively promote judicial reform. At this juncture, this is the issue the people of Taiwan care the most about. The general sentiment is that the judicial system is not close to the people, and is not trusted by them. It is unable to fight crime effectively, and has lost its function as the last line of defense for justice.

To demonstrate the new government’s resolve, we will hold a national congress on judicial issues this coming October. By allowing public participation and letting in social forces, we will advance judicial reform together. The judicial system must respond to the needs of the people. It will no longer be a judicial system for legal professionals only, but for everyone. Judicial reform is not only the business of legal professionals; it must be inclusive. These are my expectations for judicial reform.

4. Regional Peace and Stability and Cross-Strait Relations

The fourth area for the new government to address is regional peace, stability and development, as well as the proper management of cross-Strait relations. Over the past 30 years, Asia and the world have undergone dramatic changes. And governments have become increasingly concerned over global and regional economic stability and collective security.

Taiwan has always played an indispensable role in the region’s development. But in recent years, regional dynamics have been changing rapidly. If Taiwan does not effectively use its strengths and leverage to proactively participate in regional affairs, it will not only become insignificant, it may even become marginalized and lose the ability to determine its own future.

But where there is crisis, there is opportunity. The present stage of Taiwan’s economic development is highly connected and complementary with many countries in the region. If our efforts to build a New Model for Economic Development can be linked to other Asian and Asia-Pacific countries through cooperation, to jointly shape future development strategies, we will not just contribute to the region’s innovation.

We will also contribute greatly to the region’s structural adjustment and sustainable development. Together with other members of this region, we will forge an intimate sense of “economic community.”

We will share resources, talents and markets with other countries to achieve economies of scale and to allow the efficient use of resources. This is the spirit on which our “New Southbound Policy” is based. We will broaden exchanges and cooperation with regional neighbors in areas such as technology, culture and commerce, and expand in particular our dynamic relationships with ASEAN and India.

We are also willing to engage in candid exchanges and pursue possibilities for cooperation and collaboration with the other side of the Strait on our common participation in regional development.

As we actively develop our economy, the security situation in the Asia-Pacific region is becoming increasingly complex. Cross-Strait relations have become an integral part of building regional peace and collective security. In this process, Taiwan will be a “staunch guardian of peace” that actively participates and is never absent. We will work to maintain peace and stability in cross-Strait relations. We will make efforts to facilitate domestic reconciliation, strengthen our democratic institutions, consolidate consensus, and present a united position to the outside world.

For us to accomplish our goals, dialogue and communication are absolutely crucial. Taiwan will also become a “proactive communicator for peace.” We will establish mechanisms for intensive and routine communications with all parties involved, and exchange views at all times to prevent misjudgment, establish mutual trust, and effectively resolve disputes. We will handle related disputes in adherence to the principles of maintaining peace and sharing interests.

I was elected President in accordance with the Constitution of the Republic of China, thus it is my responsibility to safeguard the sovereignty and territory of the Republic of China; regarding problems arising in the East China Sea and South China Sea, we propose setting aside disputes so as to enable joint development.

We will also work to maintain the existing mechanisms for dialogue and communication across the Taiwan Strait. In 1992, the two institutions representing each side across the Strait (SEF & ARATS), through communication and negotiations, arrived at various joint acknowledgements and understandings.

It was done in a spirit of mutual understanding and a political attitude of seeking common ground while setting aside differences. I respect this historical fact. Since 1992, over twenty years of interactions and negotiations across the Strait have enabled and accumulated outcomes which both sides must collectively cherish and sustain; and it is based on such existing realities and political foundations that the stable and peaceful development of the cross-Strait relationship must be continuously promoted.

The new government will conduct cross-Strait affairs in accordance with the Republic of China Constitution, the Act Governing Relations Between the People of Taiwan Area and the Mainland Area, and other relevant legislation. The two governing parties across the Strait must set aside the baggage of history, and engage in positive dialogue, for the benefit of the people on both sides.

By existing political foundations, I refer to a number of key elements. The first element is the fact of the 1992 talks between the two institutions representing each side across the Strait (SEF & ARATS), when there was joint acknowledgement of setting aside differences to seek common ground. This is a historical fact. The second element is the existing Republic of China constitutional order. The third element pertains to the outcomes of over twenty years of negotiations and interactions across the Strait. And the fourth relates to the democratic principle and prevalent will of the people of Taiwan.

5. Diplomatic and Global Issues

The fifth area for the new government to take up is to fulfill our duty as a citizen of the world and contribute towards diplomatic and global issues. We will bring Taiwan closer to the world, and the world closer to Taiwan. With us here today are many heads of state and delegations.

I would like to thank them for their longstanding assistance to Taiwan and for giving us the opportunity to participate in the international community. Going forward, through governmental interactions, business investment and people-to-people collaborations, we will continue to share Taiwan’s experience in economic development and build lasting partnerships with our allies.

Taiwan has been a model citizen in global civil society. Since our democratization, we have persisted in upholding the universal values of peace, freedom, democracy and human rights. It is with this spirit that we join the alliance of shared values and concerns for global issues. We will continue to deepen our relationships with friendly democracies including the United States, Japan and Europe to advance multifaceted cooperation on the basis of shared values.

We will proactively participate in international economic and trade cooperation and rule-making, steadfastly defend the global economic order, and integrate into important regional trade and commercial architecture. We will also not be absent on the prevention of global warming and climate change.

We will create within the Executive Yuan an office for energy and carbon-reduction. We will regularly review goals for cutting greenhouse gas emissions in accordance with the agreement negotiated at the COP21 meeting in Paris. Together with friendly nations we will safeguard a sustainable earth.

At the same time, the new government will support and participate in international cooperation on emerging global issues including humanitarian aid, medical assistance, disease prevention and research, anti-terrorism cooperation and jointly tackling transnational crime. Taiwan will be an indispensable partner for the international community.

Conclusion

From the first direct Presidential Election in 1996 to today, exactly 20 years have gone by. Thanks to two decades of hard work by successive governments and civil society, we have overcome many obstacles that emerging democracies must confront. Throughout this process, we have had many touching moments and stories. But like other countries, we have also experienced anxiety, unease, contradictions and conflict.

We have witnessed confrontation within society; confrontation between progressive and conservative forces, between pro-environment and pro-development views, and between political ideologies. These confrontations have sparked the energy for mobilization during election seasons. But also because of these dichotomies, our democracy gradually lost its ability to solve problems.

Democracy is a process. In every era, those who work in politics must recognize clearly the responsibilities they shoulder. Democracy can move forward, but it can also fall backwards. Standing here today, I want to say to everyone: for us, falling backwards is not an option.

The new government’s duty is to move Taiwan’s democracy forward to the next stage: before, democracy was about winning or losing the election. Now, democracy is about the welfare of the people. Before, democracy was a showdown between two opposing values. Now, democracy is a conversation between many diverse values.

To build a “united democracy” that is not hijacked by ideology; to build an “efficient democracy” that responds to the problems of society and economy; to build a “pragmatic democracy” that takes care of the people – this is the significance of the new era.

As long as we believe, the new era will arrive. As long as our leaders have unwavering faith, the new era will be born in the hands of our generation. Dear fellow Taiwanese, this speech is coming to a close, but reforms are just about to start. From this moment on, the weight of the country rests upon the new government. It is my duty for you all to see this country change.

History will remember this courageous generation. This country’s prosperity, dignity, unity, confidence and justice all bear the marks of our struggle. History will remember our courage. It will remember that in the year 2016, we took this country in a new direction. Everyone on this land can be proud of having participated in changing Taiwan.

In the earlier performance, I was really touched by a verse in the lyrics of a song:

“Today is the day, my brave fellow Taiwanese.”

Dear fellow citizens, dear 23 million people of Taiwan: the wait is over. Today is the day. Today, tomorrow, and on every day to come, we shall all vow to be a Taiwanese who safeguards democracy, freedom, and this country.

Thank you.

Full Text of Speech Focus Taiwan

Photo: CSIS via flickr

PM Abe’s Remarks on Obama Visit To Hiroshima

The following are brief remarks made by Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on the proposed visit to Hiroshima by US President Barack Obama on May 27.

Tuesday May 10, 2016

It has been decided that President Obama and I will visit Hiroshima, an atomic bombing site, on the 27th of this month, following the G7 Ise-Shima Summit. I sincerely welcome President Obama’s visit to Hiroshima. Many people in the city tragically lost their lives due to the dropping of the atomic bomb 70 years ago. This visit will serve as an opportunity for both Japan and the United States to pay tribute to all of the victims. As the only country to have ever suffered atomic bombings, Japan has consistently advocated the elimination of nuclear weapons, vowing that such a tragic experience should never be repeated anywhere in the world. I am convinced that President Obama visiting Hiroshima, witnessing the realities of atomic bombings, and communicating his thoughts and views to the world will provide significant momentum for the creation of a world without nuclear weapons. I am committed to working with President Obama to realize such a world.

Many lives were lost due to the dropping of the atomic bombs 70 years ago. It is also true that many people are still suffering even now. I believe it is their strong wish that such a tragedy never be repeated. President Obama has always stated that as the only country to have utilized nuclear weapons, the United States has a responsibility to take actions toward creating a world without nuclear weapons. Through this visit, a message will be sent out from the atomic bombing site to the world about the President’s determination for a world without nuclear weapons. I believe this has significance for our generation, our children’s and grandchildren’s generations, and all future generations.

President Obama will be visiting the atomic bombing site. I imagine that this was a major decision for the U.S. President. The leader of the only country to have utilized nuclear weapons in the world and I, the Prime Minister of the only country to have ever suffered atomic bombings, will together extend condolences to the victims. I am convinced that this is in line with the wishes of the victims of the atomic bombings and the people who are still suffering even now.

Text source: PM’s website Japan

Photo: PM of Japan and Cabinet (no alteration)

President Obama To Visit Hiroshima in May

The White House announced on Tuesday that President Barack Obama would visit Hiroshima in May when he is in Japan for the G-7 summit. Obama will be the first president to do so. News reports say he is not there to offer an apology, but to lay out a vision of a world without nuclear weapons. It is also worth remembering that Mr. Obama was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2009 for, among other things, promoting nuclear nonproliferation.

So what do you think? How important is this visit? Will it make a difference? Should Mr. Obama apologize to the Japanese nation? Please log in and give us your thoughts on this topic.

Photo: Travis Wise via flickr

Asian Waters–Lancang Mekong Leaders’ Meeting 2016

The first Lancang Mekong Cooperation Leaders’ meeting was held on March 23, 2016 in Sanya on China’s Hainan Island. Leaders from Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand and Viet Nam as well as China attended. The purpose of the meeting was to promote economic and social development and support the ASEAN community. All parties involved have an important stake in the management of the Mekong River, (called Lancang in China) which begins in the Tibetan plateau and flows through the six countries represented, finally emptying into the South China Sea.

The meeting was designed to promote cooperation in a full menu of areas (See Sanya Declaration for complete details). Such targets include:

Promoting high-level exchanges
Promote dialogue between parliaments, government officials defense and law
Enhance cooperation against terrorism, trans-national crime, and disasters
Advance China-ASEAN cooperation

At the meeting China offered the Southeast Asian countries 10 billion Yuan ($1.54 billion) in loans over a three-year period. It was also agreed that the Leaders’ Meeting should be held every two years, and that the venue for the next meeting would be Cambodia.

Sanya Declaration, China MOFA: http://www.fmprc.gov.cn/mfa_eng/zxxx_662805/t1350039.shtml

Photo: ENGLISH.GOV.CN

Kim Jong-un Opens Seventh Party Congress

On May 7, 2016 Kim Jung-un, Supreme Leader of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea opened the Seventh Congress of the Worker’s Party of Korea. Presented here is the full text of Mr. Kim’s welcoming address to delegates and observers to the Seventh Congress.

Dear delegates,

Today we are holding the historic Seventh Congress of the Workers’ Party of Korea amid the grand struggle in which the whole Party, the entire army and all the people, filled with iron nerves and confidence to achieve the final victory of the Juche revolution as soon as possible, are making an all-out, general onward march courageously, thwarting all manner of threats and desperate challenges by the imperialists.

Reflecting the infinite loyalty and ardent reverence of delegates, Party members, service personnel and all other people across the country, I would like first to extend the noblest tribute and greatest glory to the great Comrades Kim Il Sung and Kim Jong Il who are the founder and builder of the WPK, incarnations of the mightiness of the invincible WPK, and eternal leaders of our Party and people.

Comrades,

During the period under review our Party and people have waged a sacred yet arduous struggle to defend socialism and propel the cause of the Juche revolution victoriously under the wise leadership of the great President Kim Il Sung and General Kim Jong Il.

In this period our Party’s ranks have been deprived of such anti-Japanese revolutionary war veterans as Kim Il, Choe Hyon, O Paek Ryong, O Jin U, Choe Kwang, Rim Chun Chu, Pak Song Chol, Jon Mun Sop and Ri Ul Sol, who, holding the great leaders in high esteem, devoted themselves entirely to the country and people on the long road of the Juche revolution.

And they have been bereft of many faithful revolutionary comrades, including Ho Tam, Yon Hyong Muk, Kim Jung Rin, Ho Jong Suk, Kim Kuk Thae, Kim Yong Sun, Kim Yang Gon, Jon Pyong Ho, Pak Song Bong, Ri Chan Son, Ri Je Gang, Ri Yong Chol, Kang Ryang Uk, Ri Jong Ok, Kim Rak Hui and An Tal Su, who worked with devotion for the strengthening and development of our Party and the victory of the socialist cause.

We have also lost Jo Myong Rok, Kim Kwang Jin, Kim Tu Nam, Jon Jae Son, Yun Chi Ho, Ri Tong Chun, Kim Ha Gyu, Ri Jin Su, Sim Chang Wan and other precious comrades-in-arms in the Songun revolution who performed heroic exploits in the struggle to strengthen and develop the revolutionary armed forces.

In addition, Ri Sung Gi, Im Rok Jae, Chon Se Bong, Paek In Jun, Yu Won Jun, Ri Sang Byok, Pak Yong Sun and other academicians, professors, doctors, writers, People’s Artistes and People’s Athletes, who bent all their energies and wisdom to developing science, culture and the arts, and sports, and Han Tok Su, Choe Tok Sin, Ri In Mo, Rim Hon Sik, Kim Kwang Thaek and other unforgettable revolutionary comrades and pro-reunification, patriotic figures passed away.

These people devoted their all unsparingly to the victory of the cause of the Juche revolution, reunification of the country and national prosperity, in loyal support of the WPK and the leader; the brilliant victory of our revolution and the present glory of the socialist country are attributable to their priceless blood and self-sacrifice.

To the memory of the anti-Japanese revolutionary war veterans, patriotic martyrs, unforgettable revolutionary comrades-in-arms of our Party and pro-reunification, patriotic figures who laid down their precious lives in the struggle for socialist construction, national reunification and the cause of global independence, I propose to observe a minute’s silence.

Comrades,

The Seventh Congress of the WPK has been convened at a historic time when the phase of leap forward in implementing the cause of the Juche revolution is being opened up.

The last decades since the Sixth Congress of the WPK were characterized by grim struggle and glorious victory on the part of our Party and people.

During the period under review the situation of our revolution was very grave and complex.

In the unprecedentedly hard times when the world socialist system collapsed and the allied imperialist forces concentrated their anti-socialist offensive on our Republic, our Party and people were compelled to fight against them single-handed.

The imperialists strained the situation constantly for decades to keep our people from living at peace even for a moment and blocked all the pathways to economic development and existence through all manner of blockade, pressure and sanctions.

In the face of harsh and manifold difficulties and ordeals and the hardships and sufferings worse than those during a war, our Party and people were united more firmly around the Central Committee of the WPK, holding the President and the General in high esteem as the centre of unity and leadership, and made strenuous efforts to defend and advance the socialist cause, following only the revolutionary line of Juche put forward by the great leaders as they braved the storm of history without the slightest hesitation or vacillation.

As there were the wise leadership of the President and the General and the might of single-hearted unity of the WPK, the army and the people around the leader, we were able to etch proud victories in history, smashing the schemes of the allied imperialist forces to stifle the Republic at every step and safeguarding the red flag of socialism and the gains of the revolution to the last.

During the period under review, the WPK embodied the Juche-oriented line of party building of General Kim Jong Il to become a powerful body, ideologically pure and organizationally integrated, in which oneness has been achieved in ideology and leadership and to develop into a motherly party assuming the responsibility for the destiny of the masses of the people, an ever-victorious party with seasoned and sophisticated art of leadership and a steel-strong and promising revolutionary party.

This year when the Seventh Congress of the WPK is held, our service personnel and people achieved great successes in the first hydrogen bomb test and the launch of earth observation satellite Kwangmyongsong 4 which served as landmarks in the nation’s history spanning 5 000 years, thus raising the dignity and might of Juche Korea to the highest level possible; in high spirits, they conducted a dynamic 70-day campaign of loyalty to perform great feats and make unprecedented labour successes in all fields of socialist construction.

All the service personnel and people throughout the country displayed the spirit of carrying out the policies of the WPK to the death in response to its militant call for launching the 70-day campaign, thereby making the greatest successes and leap forward in all sectors of the national economy and achieving the brilliant result of exceeding the targets of the campaign set by the WPK.

During the campaign, the electric-power, coal-mining and metallurgical industries and rail transport sector strove hard for increased output and transport to bring about a surge in production, and many units in different sectors of the national economy including the machine-building, chemical, building-materials and light industries and agriculture raised a strong wind to ensure modernization and domestic production of our style and bring about an upswing in production, thus making the distinguished achievement of carrying out the first half-year and yearly national economic plans ahead of schedule.

Our heroic working class of Kim Il Sung and Kim Jong Il, scientists and technicians waged an unyielding struggle on the principle of giving priority to self-development to develop and manufacture new machines and equipment based on local efforts and technology, thereby presenting them as gifts to the Congress of the motherly Party. Others across the country wonderfully completed lots of major construction projects, which will be highly conducive to developing the economy and improving the people’s living standards, in a short span of time before the Congress to send reports of loyalty to the Central Committee of the WPK.

Those in the national defence science sector that played a magnificent prelude to this meaningful year with a thrilling explosion of Juche Korea’s first hydrogen bomb went on to create momentous miracles in defending our national dignity and sovereignty, thus topping off the 70-day campaign and opening wide the door to the Seventh Congress of the WPK, full of pride in being victors.

All sectors and all units, burning their hearts with ardent loyalty to the WPK and extraordinary patriotic enthusiasm, sped up the grand revolutionary march to celebrate the Seventh Congress of the WPK as a glorious meeting of victors. This fully demonstrated the firm faith and will of our service personnel and people who are triumphantly building a thriving nation before the eyes of the world by smashing the hostile forces’ vicious manoeuvres geared to sanctions and strangulation, and displayed to the world the indomitable spirit, daring grit and inexhaustible strength of heroic Korea.

The numerous eye-opening events that happened one after another in the run-up to the meaningful Congress of the WPK–all these achievements are permeated with the precious sweat, ardent passion and unassuming effort of the Party members who have always thrown in their lot with the WPK and adorned the golden age of socialist construction with uninterrupted revolutionary upsurges.

I would like to extend heartfelt thanks and militant greetings, on behalf of the Central Committee of the WPK, to all the delegates, Party members, service personnel of the Korean People’s Army and other people, who have adorned the sacred history of the WPK with hot blood and sweat of patriotism and made a great contribution to celebrating the Seventh Congress of the WPK as a meeting of victory and glory by clasping the weapons of revolution, hammer, sickle and writing brush with a burning conviction to travel one road for ever following our Party.

On the occasion of our Party’s significant Congress my warm greetings go to the Anti-imperialist National Democratic Front, Korean Social Democratic Party, Chondoist Chongu Party, south Korean people, Chongryon (General Association of Korean Residents in Japan) and other overseas Koreans’ organizations and all the compatriots abroad that are working hard for the country’s reunification and prosperity.

On behalf of the Congress of the WPK, I also extend warm thanks and greetings to political parties and organizations, Juche idea study groups, friendship and solidarity organizations and personages from all walks of life in different countries of the world and representatives of diplomatic missions and international organizations in the DPRK, that have rendered positive support and encouragement to our revolution and sent congratulatory messages, letters and baskets of flowers to the Seventh Congress of the WPK.

Comrades,

The Seventh Congress of the WPK will sum up the brilliant successes and invaluable experience our Party and people have gained during the period under review and put forward the strategic line and tasks to keep ushering in a great golden age of socialist construction and the direction of advance of our revolution.

This Congress of the WPK will be a historic occasion for setting up another milestone in the struggle for the development of the glorious Kimilsungist-Kimjongilist Party and the accomplishment of the cause of socialism.

3 467 delegates have the right to vote in this Congress and 200 delegates have the right to address it; all of them are present here as they have been elected at the conferences of the WPK at different levels.

Among them 1 545 are delegates of Party officials and political workers, 719 delegates of service personnel, 423 delegates of state administrative and economic officials, 52 delegates of officials of working people’s organizations, 112 delegates of officials in the sectors of science, education, public health, culture and the arts and the mass media, 786 delegates of hardcore Party members involved in field labour, six anti-Japanese revolutionary war veterans and 24 former unconverted long-term prisoners.

Of them 315 are women.

Present at the Congress are also 1 387 observers.

Fully convinced that this Congress of the WPK will perform its work satisfactorily backed up by high political enthusiasm of all delegates to be a historic meeting that will leave an outstanding mark on the development of our Party and revolution and a meeting for general advance to hasten the final victory of the cause of the Juche revolution, I declare the Seventh Congress of the WPK open.

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Photo and Text: Rodong Shinmun

Trump on China: “I like China”

“We can’t continue to allow China to rape our country. It’s the greatest theft in the history of the world.”

(Huffington Post, May 2, 2016)

“China is killing us, they are devaluing their currency.”

(CNN, March 17, 2016)

” I’m not saying they’re stupid. I like China. I just sold an apartment to someone from China for fifteen million dollars. Am I supposed to dislike them?”

(ABC News 16 June 2015, Trump Presidential Campaign announcement)

“Their leaders are smarter than our leaders.”

(Bloomberg Politics video, June 16, 2015)

“We are rebuilding China.”

(Bloomberg Politics video, June 16, 2015)

“We want deal.”

(South China Morning Post, 26 August 2016. Trump in Dubuque, Iowa. Trump putting on Pidgin English accent to signify Asian speech.)

Photo: Gage Skidmore via flickr

Voices From The Graveyard of Empires

by David Parmer

Afghanistan has been called the graveyard of empires because foreign powers from Alexander the Great to the British and the Russians, and now the Americans, have seen money, power and blood drained away in its sandy soil.

What makes it attractive to great powers is its key position in central Asia, an ideal base from which to influence the region. What makes it impossible to manage is a tribal society that has its own timeless agenda that has been unhurried and unchanged for centuries.

Is intervention in tribal and religious warfare possible? Yes. Is it necessary? Is it profitable or advantageous to the intervening parties? It seems only history has the answers to those questions.

The former Soviet Union had boots on the ground in Afghanistan from December 1979 to February 1989. It sustained an estimated 14,000 casualties during that time. The cost was between 1–3 billion rubles per year.

And what were the Soviets thinking? In excerpts from a Politbureau session on January 21, 1987, published by the National Security Archive, we can get a good idea. Many of the attendees are well know to us; Foreign Minister Eduard Shevardnadze and Head of the Central Committee International Department Anatoly Dobrynin, and Politbureau member Mikhail Gorbachev.

During the discussion, some members try to find any bit of good news, and attempt to put a positive spin on things. However, it is abundantly clear that the Soviet policy in Afghanistan has failed. What is telling, and is perhaps the loudest voice from history, is Eduard Shevardnadze’s blunt admission of Soviet failure; it is sad, truthful and final.

“Very little is left of the friendly feelings toward the Soviet people, which existed for decades. Very many people have died, and not all of them were bandits. Not a single problem was solved in favor of the peasants. In essence, [we] waged war against the peasants. The state apparatus is functioning poorly. Our adviser assistance is ineffective. Najib was complaining about the petty patronizing on the part of our advisers.

I am not going to discuss now whether we did the right thing by going there. But it is a fact that we went there absolutely not knowing the psychology of the people, or the real situation in the country. [emphasis added] And everything that we were and are doing in Afghanistan is inconsistent with the moral face of our country.

The Soviets did retreat from Afghanistan in February 1989, and Mr. Shevardnadze was proved right in his assessment of the situation. And now in 2016 we again have a situation in Syria and Iraq that parallels the Soviet failure. Maybe the most important thing that Shevardnadze said in the meeting was this:

“But we need a political decision. Otherwise we will reap the fruits of a serious political and military defeat.”

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The National Security Archive (The George Washington University) Politburo Session, January 21, 1987 Anatoly S. Chernyaev Notes:

Photo: Rusting Soviet T-62 Tank in Kandahar Afghanistan, Kenny Holston via flickr

Boots On The Ground in Syria

by David Parmer

“Boots on the ground” (i.e. one sovereign country’s military forces operating in another sovereign country’s territory) is not always the first option of choice in geopolitics. A major power like the U.S. or Russia can influence a situation by supplying money, weapons, advice and intelligence support to a client or allied state without putting its own troops in harm’s way.

In some cases, “boots on the ground” is a quick in and out–it could be a response to something like a hostage situation or even a natural disaster. “Boots on the ground” may start off small, but there is always a chance for escalation.

Both the U.S. and Russia have memories of situations that began simply enough but then turned tragic. The U.S. had its Vietnam experience where it lost 58,000 troops, and the Russians had their Afghan experience where they lost 14,000 troops. The villain here is a concept known as “mission creep” where things start out small but escalate.

Which is all background for an announcement made by U.S. President Barack Obama on April 25 in Germany that an additional 250 American Special Operations Forces (SOF) would be sent to Syria as trainers and advisors. In October 2015, an initial 50 SOF personnel were dispatched. There is speculation that gains have been made, and the intention is to keep pressure on Daesh and go forward with the momentum. (Syria is not the only place where American boots are on the ground in the Middle East: there are now 4,000+ U.S. personnel in Iraq.)

Russia, despite its claims of leaving the Syrian conflict has SOF of its own in Syria. The Washington Post reported on March 29 that Russian Spetsnaz operators worked with Syrian, Iranian and Hezbollah fighters to capture the city of Palmyra from Daesh.

The Post also reports that the mission of Russian forces is similar to that performed by U.S. SOF operators, i.e. training and targeting, with one exception–that Russian SOF go into battle with their clients.

There are reports on a Russian officer being killed in the battle for Palmyra by calling in air support when surrounded by Daesh fighters.

And what is ahead? It is hard to say. The coalition says it is pressing the militants hard and taking the fight to them. The real question is if the people of the U.S. and Russia are willing to see their soldiers die or be held captive. For bullets fly both ways, and even the bad guys have a good day now and then. Is there commitment in the U.S. and Russia to see this to the end regardless of what it takes?

Please log in and let us know your thoughts.

Image Photo: U.S. Department of Defense via flickr (Public Domain)

Cuba: The Old Men And The Sea

by David Parmer

In 1954 Ernest Miller Hemingway was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature for his short novel The Old Man and the Sea. The story tells of Santiago, an old Cuban fisherman who has gone 84 days without catching a fish. The fisherman goes out one more time in the hopes that his luck will change, and it does. He hooks a huge marlin and after a long battle with the fish he heads back to shore. Along the way he is attacked by sharks numerous times. He does his best, but finally the sharks prevail, and he lands with only the head, tail and backbone of the great fish. The sharks have won.

Surely the aging leaders of Cuba’s Communist party know Hemingway’s story and maybe, subconsciously, they could see a parallel between the fish being attacked by sharks and the threat of Cuba’s revolution being eaten away by “the empire” and greedy capitalists.

It could be so, for the Seventh Congress of the Communist Party gave little ground in the area that the Chinese call “reform and opening up.” This Congress, held from April 16–19 passed few “reforms” and did not even tip its hat to “opening up.”

Well before the conference, former President Fidel Castro set the tone in his open letter to Barack Obama on March 27 published in the Granma newspaper. President Raul Castro, while noting the slow implementation of measures mandated at the last congress five years ago, echoed brother Fidel’s sentiments. He clearly stated than any reform measures, past or future, do not mean a return to Capitalism.

There was no leadership change at the Seventh Congress, and no new economic or political reforms. Fidel Castro hinted that this might be his last appearance at a party congress, and Raul Castro oversaw the introduction of age limits that will retire older members. For the time being, the older generation will oversee the transition to a younger politbureau. Five new members were elected this time.

So how will the transition go? The hardline revolutionaries who poured into Havana on January 1,1959, including the Castro brothers will disappear. The revolution itself will change. The Chinese and Vietnamese models (made brief reference to by Raul Castro during the conference) have shown that a vibrant economy can co-exist with a one-party Communist system. But the present leadership seems no more enamored of these models than of Mr. Obama’s offer for a new relationship made the preceding month. There are many roads open for Cuba including ones that lead to the fate of the former Communist states of the Soviet Union and East Germany.

Vigorous management and a fresh vision for the future of the country, the society and the economy could make the difference, but when the leadership seems to focus only on sharks, and not opportunities, it is problematic.

What do you think? Please log in and give us your thoughts.

Photo: M.G.N. via flickr (Cropped for size)

Fidel Castro’s Response To Barack Obama’s Olive Branch

Not everyone was charmed by U.S. President Barack Obama’s visit to Cuba in March 2016, least of all former Cuban President Fidel Castro. In an open letter published by the newspaper, Granma, and entitled “Brother Obama,” Castro instructed the president on Cuban history, the history of imperialism vis-a-vis Cuba. He noted the invasion by counter-revolutionaries at the Bay of Pigs, touched on South Africa and Angola and finished with the passages printed here below. He quotes Obama’s offer of friendship and calls them “the most sweetened words” and affirms that the history of enmity can not be forgotten, that Cuba will not give up its historic revolutionary gains and that Cuba can go it alone in terms of producing food and material riches.

The bottom line is that for many reasons President Fidel Castro believes that Cuba should reject the olive branch and hand of friendship extended by President Barack during his Cuba visit.

From April 16–19, the Cuban Communist Party will hold its 7th Party Congress. One thousand delegates from local and provincial levels will meet to discuss a number of issues. Surely the Obama visit and the future economic and political future of Cuba will be at the forefront. Is Dr. Castro’s view that of the majority, or will other voices be heard? We will soon have a pretty good idea.

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“Obama made a speech in which he uses the most sweetened words to express: “It is time, now, to forget the past, leave the past behind, let us look to the future together, a future of hope. And it won’t be easy, there will be challenges and we must give it time; but my stay here gives me more hope in what we can do together as friends, as family, as neighbors, together.”

I suppose all of us were at risk of a heart attack upon hearing these words from the President of the United States. After a ruthless blockade that has lasted almost 60 years, and what about those who have died in the mercenary attacks on Cuban ships and ports, an airliner full of passengers blown up in midair, mercenary invasions, multiple acts of violence and coercion?

Nobody should be under the illusion that the people of this dignified and selfless country will renounce the glory, the rights, or the spiritual wealth they have gained with the development of education, science and culture.

I also warn that we are capable of producing the food and material riches we need with the efforts and intelligence of our people. We do not need the empire to give us anything. Our efforts will be legal and peaceful, as this is our commitment to peace and fraternity among all human beings who live on this planet.”

Photo and Full Text of Castro Letter: Radio Cadena Agramonte