TAIPEI, March 19: Taiwan President Chen Shui-bian survived an assassination attempt on Friday while campaigning on the eve of a presidential election, escaping with a bullet wound to the stomach.

Vice President Annette Lu was also wounded in the attack in the southern city of Tainan but was not badly hurt, officials said. The two were taken to hospital, but later flew back to the capital.

Officials said Saturday's election would go ahead as planned. Opposition candidate Lien Chan paid a brief visit to Mr Chen at his official Taipei residence.

Chen Shui-bian delivered a brief late-night address to the nation, assuring his people he was well and they were secure. "After careful treatment by doctors, A-Bian is fine," he said in a brief address to the nation, using his nickname.

"Please put your hearts at ease. We have activated the national security mechanism. The security of Taiwan has no problems," said Mr Chen, dressed casually in a shirt and woollen waistcoat.

Chen and Lu had been travelling through Tainan streets in a jeep, waving to crowds, when unknown assailants shot at them. -Reuters