Appendix 3 - Chen Shui-bian's Victory Speech after the 10^th Republic of China Presidential and Vice-Presidential Election

Summary

Victorius Chen Shui-bian and Annette Lu. The election results for the 10th ROC Presidential and Vice-Presidential election have been declared. The Democratic Progressive Party candidates, Chen Shui-bian and Annette Lu, have been elected President and Vice-President in Taiwan's second democratic presidential election.

First, we want to thank the people of Taiwan with our most solemn and modest hearts. We would like to thank the DPP comrades. We want to thank the Academia Sinica President Lee Yuan-tseh and the national policy advisers for boldly pledging their support. We furthermore would like to thank all those who have contributed to the campaign process.

This moment is a dignified and sacred one in the history of Taiwan — because the courageous people of Taiwan, with love and hope, have conquered fear and darkness.

They have used their sacred ballots to express their determination to uphold the democracy of Taiwan.

That A-bian and Annette Lu are elected does not mean a personal victory or a victory for the DPP. This is a victory for democracy and a victory for the people. This glorious moment also marks the beginning of our responsibility.

We want to thank all the countries of the world who have over the years shown concern and support for Taiwan. This has facilitated the smooth completion of Taiwan's presidential election. Today, Taiwan has written a new chapter in our road to democracy, and has given birth to a renewed opportunity for democracy and peace in the Asia–Pacific region. It has also concretely acted as a demonstration of the third wave of global democratization.

From now on, Taiwan will continue to enhance the exchange and interaction between the government and people of the Western Pacific regions. We will dedicate ourselves toward preserving the peace and stability of the Taiwan Strait and Asia–Pacific regions.

A-bian and Annette Lu's government for the people will take advantage of Taiwan's developmental experience to assist the promotion of democracy and preservation of human rights in international societies.