Democracy in Asia faces many challenges and obstacles. Struggles are inevitable in the quest for freedom, liberty and human rights. 2004 is a remarkable year for many Asian countries, such as Taiwan, Malaysia, India, Sri Lanka, South Korea, Philippines and recently, Indonesia, which have all successfully completed their elections. The DPP is, therefore, confident and optimistic towards the future of democratic transitions in Asia.

This year, the DPP assumed the two-year chair party responsibility for the Council of Asian Liberals & Democrats (CALD), and therefore, in promoting the democratic values and strengthening the relationships with CALD member parties (including observer political parties from Indonesia, Korea and Japan) the DPP would like to invite 20 delegates nominated by CALD member and observer organizations for the upcoming 2004 legislative election in Taiwan.

The objectives for this invitation are for the delegates to witness first hand democracy in Taiwan (as manifested by this elections), and also to exchange valuable experiences during their visit. CALD and the DPP will remain in close contact with the delegates after the mission and are looking forward to build closer friendships and relations among the CALD member and observer organizations.