Premier Chiang Ching-kuo reiterated the Republic of China's firm stand against any negotiations, trade or other contacts with the Chinese Communists in his administrative report at the new session of the Legislative Yuan on September 17. He said he hoped that the United States government would face the facts, review its policy toward the Chinese Communists and understand our view. Premier Chiang added that maintaining diplomatic relations between the ROC and the U. S. and adhering to their mutual defense treaty are in the basic interests of both countries, and will insure peace and stability in the Asian and Pacific region. The premier also emphasized the importance of Kinmen and Matsu.
Thirty-one American university presidents and their wives, led by Dr. John A. Marvel, President of Adams State College in Colorado, arrived in Taipei on September 26 for a week-long visit. They visited island cultural institutions and economic development projects. The educators proposed a five-point plan to promote a higher educational exchange with the Republic of China through the American Association of State Colleges and Universities. The group flew to visit Kinmen on October 2. The picture shows the visitors on a street of the frontline island.
Twenty-four contemporary artists of the Republic of China cooperated to produce seven large paintings at the National Museum of History in Taipei September 25. The theme was "President Chiang Kai-shek and youth." The works will be presented to the China Youth Corps for exhibition at the CYC's seven youth activity centers in different parts of Taiwan. The largest painting is 3 feet deep and 36 feet long. Chang Ta-chien was the first artist to paint. The paintings also include the calligraphy of Chang Ta-chien, Ma Shou-hua, Yeh Kung-chao (George Yeh), Chen Ting-shan, Kao Yi-hung, Fu Chuan-fu and Liu Yen-tou.
The fifth World Chinese Tourism Amity Conference opened in Taipei on October 5. More than 230 delegates from 25 countries and areas attended the two-day meeting to discuss strengthened cooperation among Chinese tourist industry leaders at home and abroad. President C. K. Yen sent a message to the conference. The next conference will be held in Singapore in September 1978. During their stay in Taiwan, the overseas Chinese tourist leaders toured economic establishments and visited Tzuhu in Taoyuan County to pay their respects to the late President Chiang Kai-shek.