We should be proud of Taiwan’s contribution to SVG, says Eustace

Leader of the Opposition Arnhim Eustace is of the view that Taiwan’s contribution to the development of St. Vincent and the Grenadines is something of which we should be proud.{{more}}

As he addressed the gathering at the 100th anniversary celebration of Taiwan on Thursday, October 6, Eustace said: “No one can dare say that Taiwan’s contribution to our development is something that we in St. Vincent and the Grenadines should not be proud about.”

Eustace, who is also the President of the New Democratic Party (NDP), said since the establishment of diplomatic ties 30 years ago with the Taiwan, “the two countries have had a very close relationship.”

The Opposition Leader was the second of three individuals, including Ambassador Weber V.B Shih and Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves, who delivered addresses at the ceremony, which was held at the Methodist Church Hall in Kingstown.

“It is a very rare circumstance in St. Vincent and the Grenadines that you see both sides of the house being in unity on any particular issue; but, in this case, we can say so and speak the truth,” Eustace told the gathering.

“I have attended so many ceremonies, and sometimes feel as though I am repeating myself when I speak of Taiwan’s contribution to the development of the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, but it is true,” he added.

The Opposition Leader also indicated that it was a privilege and an honour for him to address the ceremony marking the National Day of the Republic of China on Taiwan.

“100 years in the life of anything is a long time. It is 100 years that sees this small country reach to great heights in economic terms; this is something indeed to be proud of …” Eustace said.

Some of the projects that have been undertaken since the establishment of diplomatic ties between the two countries include the building of the Rabacca Bridge, the National Public Library, the learning resource centres, and the ongoing Taiwanese scholarship program under which approximately 50 Vincentian students are pursuing studies in Taiwan.

According to the NDP leader, “these programs are very important to the nation’s development.”

Other invited guests at the ceremony included Governor General Sir Frederick Ballantyne, the Governor General’s Deputy Dame Monica Dacon, Members of Parliament, former Ministers of Foreign Affairs, Sir Louis Straker and Alpian Allen, as well as members of the private sector.(AA)