Republic of China on Taiwan celebrates 100th anniversary

THE REPUBLIC of China on Taiwan, the first democratic republic in Asia, is celebrating its 100th anniversary as a nation.{{more}}

To mark the occasion, a ceremony was held on Thurday, October 6, at the Methodist Church Hall in Kingstown, under the auspices of Taiwan’s Ambassador to St. Vincent and the Grenadines His Excellency (H.E) Weber Shih.

Addressing the audience, Shih said SVG and Taiwan have enjoyed a cordial, mutually beneficial relationship for the past 30 years.

“The Republic of China on Taiwan and St. Vincent and the Grenadines established diplomatic ties back in 1981, and since then, our friendship has become ever stronger…

“2011 is a special year worth celebrating and will continue to bring progress and prosperity to our two countries,” the Ambassador said.

Diplomatic relations were established between the two countries on August 15, 1981.

Ambassador Shih stated that the cooperation between SVG and Taiwan has extended into different areas, such as infrastructure, agriculture, education, medical care, cultural exchanges information technology etc.

“These programs are very important to your nation’s development and will continue to manifest for generations to come,” he said.

The Ambassador also took the time to highlight the impressive achievements of the Republic of China (Taiwan) over the past 100 years. He indicated that this has made the Asian country an important player on the international stage.

“From a traditional agricultural economy, to a modern technological powerhouse, this remarkable transformation was largely driven by industrious people, farsighted government policies, and a culture of nimble and innovative enterprises,” the Ambassador explained.

Taiwan is now ranked as having the 4th largest foreign currency reserves, the 23rd largest economy; being the16th largest exporter and the 17th biggest importer in the World.

The other two invited speakers at last Thursday’s event were Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves and Opposition Leader Arnhim Eustace.

Both leaders extended congratulations to Ambassador Shih for Taiwan’s achievement and said they look forward to a continued relationship with the Asian nation.

The cocktail style reception concluded with a Lion Dance by the National Dance Company which paid tribute to the 100th National Day of the Republic of China on Taiwan.(AA)