Vice Premier Cheng Li-chun presided over ceremonies receiving the Coast Guard Administration’s new vessel Lienchiang and naming the patrol ship Hualien Nov. 6 in northern Taiwan’s Keelung City.
Speaking at the ceremonies, Cheng said the positive developments represent another giant step forward in the government’s domestic shipbuilding project, which aims to build 141 patrol ships between 2018 and 2027. By bolstering shipbuilding, design, materials and equipment supply, inspection and maintenance sectors, the project is expected to generate more than NT$100 billion (US$3.11 billion) in output, as well as create approximately 8,000 new jobs, she added.
The vice premier said the two new vessels are equipped with deployment endurance and seakeeping capabilities that will allow them to operate in harsh weather conditions, including during the northeast monsoon season. The ships will be deployed to the outlying Penghu County and the eastern coast of Taiwan, respectively, she said, adding that they will greatly enhance the coast guards’ capacity to safeguard the country’s fishing rights and the safety of the people.
The vice premier also paid tribute to CGA staffers for their dedication to protecting Taiwan. To show the appreciation of the government and people, Nov. 8 has been declared Coast Guard Day, she said, adding that no efforts will be spared to stand behind various projects undertaken by the CGA. (SFC-E)
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