President Chen leaves question to ponder

“Our question is which side would you be?”

President Chen Shui-Bian of the Republic of China on Taiwan left this question for Vincentians to ponder shortly before signing a joint communiqué with Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves on Thursday, September 29.

The president at a brief ceremony held at the conference room of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs spoke of the People’s Republic of China’s (PRC) constant threats of using armed force against his nation as they pursue a path of independence.{{more}}

In the communiqué both leaders expressed satisfaction over the cordial friendship and close cooperation that exist between the two countries.

Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, on behalf of the government and people of St.Vincent and the Grenadines, expressed his appreciation for Taiwan’s significant contributions to the national development and prosperity of St.Vincent and the Grenadines through a wide range of cooperation projects such as the establishment of multi-purpose resource centres, a modern national library, the Youreimi-Taiwan bridge crossing the Rabacca Dry River, joining other countries in the construction of the Argyle International Airport, agricultural cooperation, cultural exchanges, as well as human resource development and education cooperation.

Prime Minister Gonsalves also expressed his gratitude to Taiwan for providing scholarships to Vincentians and dispatching Taiwan volunteers to St.Vincent and the Grenadines.

Before leaving the meeting President Chen expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Gonsalves for the hospitality and warm reception that the government and people of St.Vincent and the Grenadines accorded him and his delegation.