Ex VP: Taiwan was more efficient during the authoritarian regime

[Extremist]

Former Vice President Vincent Siew stated yesterday that he had witnessed the development of Taiwan for half a century, but he had never seen people in Taiwan feel so powerless and confused.

"The economic situation of Taiwan is dire, making people in this country feel lost and anxious," Siew stated.

In response to the criticism that government officials are all worse than their predecessors, Siew stated that the environment is changing and thus the criticism is inaccurate. "Taiwan was an authoritarian regime and orders of a few people had to be carried out," stated Siew. "Thus, the government was more efficient at that time."

The former vice president urged people not to be too pessimistic and give the incumbent president more time. He stated that the government is leading Taiwan to be more open and connected to the world.

In response to another criticism that Taiwan has become the country with the worst economic performance among the four Asian tigers, the former vice president said that Taiwan should establish its own distinguishing features and does not need to be compared with others.

As for the future of Taiwan, Siew stated that Taiwan should try to increase our "value added" status. Through innovation, Taiwan could increase the value of our products greatly, Siew said.

The former vice president went on that Taiwan can focus on increasing production, creating a better lifestyle and improving its ecological environment.