The grandeur and strength or our people and democracy are as big as a forest.

We have had a long wait for democracy.

I believe that this is not only the view of the people on both sides of the Strait. It is also the common expectation of the US, Japan and the international community.

Through mutual understanding, sincerity and goodwill, and with great wisdom and broad views, the leaders on both sides should jointly initiate new opportunities for peace, stability, cooperation and mutual benefit.

We will make every effort to unify all ethnic groups, to strengthen belief in Taiwan and to persist in reform.

However, I must say that I am very happy to see that we have such a positive result for our first referendum in our history and that gives me more confidence in Taiwan's democracy.

A defensive referendum is for avoiding war and to help keep the Taiwanese people free of fear.